Through the generosity of the Women’s Fund at the Community Foundation for Lorain County, Common Ground was able to offer a transformational program for young women in Lorain County this fall. The program, Girls: Growing Up Strong, was offered to local girls ages 15-17 who were referred by their high school guidance counselors. The purpose of the program was to support teen girls in building a stronger sense of identity, a greater acceptance of themselves, and a healthy approach to life. Ably facilitated by local professionals Vikki Howard and Cyndi Orseno, the program was held over two Saturday sessions and included creative, expressive projects and group discussion on topics including body image and self-esteem. Each participant received a book, “Be True to Yourself: A Daily Guide for Teenage Girls” by Amanda Ford, as well as a journal.

Program participants, who came from Amherst, Lorain, Elyria, Avon and Wellington, were unanimously enthusiastic about their experience. Comments from participants included things like, “I learned how to accept myself,” and “It’s going to help me look at things in an all-new perspective.”

Due to the overwhelmingly positive response, the program will be run again during the spring semester 2010. Look for more information after the first of the year.