March 8, 2021
Story by Timothy FitzGerald
Its international Women's Day today - March 8th.
Haley Wilson and Jennifer Lados are employed by Haldimand and Norfolk Women's Services. Each year, for grade 8 girls, they run a Girls Power Camp. http://www.hnws.on.ca/pages.php/18/G.I.R.L.S.-Power-Camp using Camp Trillium facilities in December. However with COVID challenges this year it will be held virtually in April. Their grins show their optimism, belief and understanding that young women can trust.
Haley and Jennifer described that many young women are quite unprepared for the social and emotional storm that they face on day one of high school. Who will be my friends? Where do I fit in? What choices should I make (good vs poor)?
The three day camp navigates Day 1: self-empowerment, self esteem, healthy relationships. Day: 2 high ropes, self defence, motivation. Day 3: healthy boundaries, sharing circles - roses and thorns.
From alumni/mentors (senior grade high school girls volunteering at the camp):
- Of women: "I wish I could have been a better friend"
- Of men: "We can't get men to support us if we can't support each other"
Everyone is invited. The camp costs $300. The student is asked to pay $100 of that total. But no one will be excluded. The community will find a way to cover the fee.
Awaiting as speakers today, Jennifer and Haley were busy stuffing boxes in the back ground for the upcoming camp.