10039903_MCM_OCT2021

MYCOMMUNITY

“We see a lot of tears and a lot of pain. We provide the girls with a safe place to talk and share their feelings.” DERIA BROWN

six to eight hours a day and compare themselves to the beautiful women they see,” Brown states, “and without parental oversight, they are getting their values from what they see online.”This is when SPGC comes in to provide the girls with real-life, positive role models. “We see a lot of tears and a lot of pain,” Brown admits. “We provide them with a safe place to talk and to share their feelings. And, they love to talk!” The SPGC holds an annual con ference – this September, it took place in Las Vegas.The agenda includes giveaways, music and

who have participated in the Spar kle Pink Girls Club is astounding. “In 14 years, we have not had one teen pregnancy,” Brown is proud to report. “They have gone on to attend college and are employed. Once they know their value, they succeed.” How You Can Help Donations of hygiene products are appreciated: shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, feminine products, tooth paste and toothbrushes, hair combs. For monetary donations: become a Pink Partner by visiting sparklepink.org/pink-partners Š

T he SPGC beliefs include: every girl should have access to education; every girl should have hygiene products and be taught how to use them; every girl should have a day to feel like a princess; girls should be pampered and protected; every girl is beautiful and should be trained how to politely respond to words that say otherwise. In order to instill these beliefs, Brown creates the curriculum and, working with a team of volunteers, holds monthly club meetings. “All the girls learn the same lessons,” she explains. One of the curriculum topics is “Boys,” according to Brown. A whole series was added to teach the girls how to respond to boys in certain situations. Another topic is “Bully ing,” including the cyber aspect of it.The most important topic is “Self Esteem.” “Some girls are online

food and it is just a fun day for the youngsters. “It’s a day for each girl to feel like a princess!” Brown exclaims. Brown has found her work for Sparkle Pink to be very rewarding. “The

THE SPGC OHIO CHAPTER HELPS YOUNG GIRLS IN THE BUCKEYE STATE.

need is much greater than me; it keeps me up at night; but I am so fulfilled. I don’t get tired of it.” And, the success of the girls

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