Student Statements " I learned stress relieving strategies, it helps me because when at home I get frustrated" --7th grade student " I felt such confidence when I finished each sewing project"--7th grade student "Ms. Zap taught me how to love myself"--8th grade student "Being part of a community of girls, helped me understand myself" --8th grade student "Sewing is a skill I never knew I had"--8th grade student "Before the sewing club, I never was comfortable talking about the things I love about myself"--8th grade student
Being the project coordinator of the program was very eye opening! As we met each week and worked on our sewing projects and talked about sensitive topics, I didn't really know how much the program was impacting the girls until the final few weeks. The girls were extremely committed week after week not only in developing their sewing skills, but as well as diving into topic such as self-awareness, self love, leadership, and community engagement. In the last few weeks of the program, the above statements were said by the students, and that was the AHA MOMENTS you realize the project became bigger than you ever imagined.
Next year, I would like to recruit another staff member or parent to help coordinate the program with me. The program was definitely impactful, however I think more students could get involved and we could have a bigger impact if I had more help. This year the program was very small, with nine students total. Many more students on campus wanted to be part of the program, I just did not have enough man power to teach more girls the art of sewing and the valuable life skills the program revolved around. The girls that were involved have made an impact on many girls on campus about what they learned from the "sewing club" and Girls Empowering Our Community. I see the program becoming more bigger in the years to come!