Program Introduction The significance of The Nurturing Hearts Program: Nurturing Hearts is committed to community building. We establish relationships with social service providers, churches, schools, law enforcement and citizen groups. We broker these services based on the individual needs of each girl and her family. Nurturing Hearts vision: Girls becoming self-sufficient adults, equipped with the capacity to continuously evolve emotionally, physically, and spiritually; building strong family units; developing a strong support system; and contributing to community life.

Overview The mission of Nurturing Hearts is to provide leadership and life skills, that will furnish and prepare at risk girls, between the ages 10-18, for a bright and positive future. Nurturing Hearts programs empower the participants to have productive futures through holistic, gender-specific programs, education and experiences that are unique to young women. Nurturing Hearts holistic programming approach is based on addressing the critical life domains that we have identified to be important to a girl's development and future success.

Project Objectives Nurturing Hearts Ten Life Domains are: Education Health and Wellness Financial Literacy Life Skills Female Awareness Leadership Development Spirituality Self Esteem Community Service Recreation

Services Prevention Services – to assist and empower girls to realize their strengths, to learn new and different skills, and to become part of their community. Self-esteem, Lifestyles, and Academic Education – to facilitate the critical transition of girls dealing with issues concerning the way they view themselves at home, at school and in the community. School-Based Services – to provide activities and workshops though after-school programs, peer groups, family programs and mother/daughter programs. Mirror Reflections Program – to match at-risk girls with caring women to help guide and support them. Job Readiness Program – to provide girls, ages 15 to 18, with the life skills and support needed to obtain employment.

Services continued Financial Literacy- Mind, Body and Spirit Program – program to provide prevention and health and wellness Leadership Program – focuses on projects that teach leadership skills Faith Based Study- Utilizes Bible based teachings to form healthy self-esteem to help the young women recognize their individual uniqueness. School Transition Program – a program to address the critical transition of girls from middle to high school.

Statistics & Unmet Needs in the Service Area Statistically Erie has the highest teen pregnancy and juvenile probation rate amongst teenage girls in the state of PA. Risk factors for adolescent pregnancy include: Younger age Poor school performance Economic disadvantage Older male partner Single or teen parents Risk Factors for negative thinking amongst teenage girls; Suicide attempts Depression, Teenage pregnancy, Victimization by others. (Bullying) Eating Disorders 90%of Nurturing Hearts Students come from single parent homes and low income households.

Keystone Research Corp The highest percentage of participants improved in the areas of positive attitudes and healthy choices, with almost 90% showing improvement.

Students from Central’s transition school attends a ‘Career Options’ field trip to Gannon University. GE AAF’s annual ‘Ready for the World Event’ where Nurturing Hearts conducted a motivational self-esteem workshop.

B obby practices public speaking for an upcoming graduation ceremony. M ichelle receives a Self-esteem makeover from the Academy of Cosmetology

Questions & Answers

Contact Information CONTACT PERSON Shawnta’ Pulliam, Founder and CEO PO Box 653 (814)