 Food 4 Thought
F4T is a free program offered to Worcester youth, specifically middle school girls ages 10-14. The event consists of a healthy of dinner or snack that helps to teach the girls about nutrition and underscore the value of making healthy food choices, followed by self-sufficiency focused workshops such as body image/ health, self-esteem, study and social skills, financial literacy, personal safety, stress management and other issues relating to young girls. Junior League members develop and facilitate the program as well as serve as mentors to the girls through interactive participation.
Sample F4T Workshops
• Healthy relationships
• Self-esteem
• Hygiene
• Job skills
• Social skills
• Financial literacy
• Coping with children (teen moms)
• Literacy/education
• Crisis management (resources)
• Childcare/Babysitting
• Life planning
• Contracts
• Bills
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• Community Service
• Etiquette
• Eating disorders
• Public speaking
• Self defense
• Technology
• Resume writing
• Job applications
• Interviews
• Nutrition/Healthy eating
• Social media
• Respect
• Healthy bodies
• Bullying
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Why Middle School Girls?
The ages between 10 and 14 are most commonly when students engage or disengage from school and learning. The National Middle School Association (NMSA) has associated this critical transition time with declining academic achievement, motivation, and self-perception. Whether students see themselves taking challenging courses in high school and pursuing post-secondary learning and careers, is directly influenced by their middle school classroom experiences. These challenges are even more pronounced for female students and those students developing their racial and ethnic identities.
Goals & Objectives of the Program
Goals
Food 4 Thought seeks to empower middle school age girls to be more self -sufficient through adult mentorship at periodic workshops focused on building life skills and self esteem.
Objectives
• Increase the self-esteem of middle school girls
• Foster healthier and forward-looking lifestyle decisions.
• Course correct high risk youth to lead a positive, healthy life.
• Expand the girls’ support group of trusted adults through positive female role models/mentors who can relate to some of their experiences and show success through leading by example.
Business Partnership & Sponsorship Opportunities
The JLW seeks partnerships and/or sponsorships for businesses invested and/or doing business in the Greater Worcester/Central Massachusetts community. Product donations such as food, craft supplies, paper goods and more are accepted. Service donations such as training and workshop facilitation are also welcome.
Contact us today to become a part of this impactful program working to empower middle school girls to develop their potential!
Agencies
If you work with an agency that targets girls ages 10-14, please contact the Junior League to explore the various Food 4 Thought opportunities available. Food 4 Thought could serve as a supplemental program to your current after school or weekend curriculum.
Contact the JLW to learn more.
Donate to Food 4 Thought
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