Young Women Leaders Program
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"The Young Women Leaders Program is one of the 2007-2008 recipients of the University of Alabama Caritas Award for Service."
Currently, YWLP is accepting applications for the 2012-2013 year. If you have additional questions, please contact Jessi Hitchins.
Who are we?
The Young Women Leaders Program is a year long mentoring program sponsored by The University of Alabama Women's Resource Center that focuses on promoting middle school girls' leadership abilities by encouraging their competence, autonomy and connections with one another. After one semester of training, you will be paired with a middle school girl.
What is the weekly commitment?
This fall you will be required to attend a weekly training session for two hours per week. The sessions will begin the first week of October and go through the first week of December. In the spring, you will be required to attend a mentoring group for two hours per week and to meet with your Little Sister outside of the group at least twice a month.
What will we do in a typical training session?
Training is designed to help you learn how best to reach and advise an elementary school girl. You will learn listening skills and mediation techniques, as well as some of the concrete exercises you will be doing with the girls. Of course, one of the great benefits of training is what you will learn about yourself and the lasting friendships you will make.
What will we do in a typical mentoring session next spring?
The sessions will last for two hours and will meet after school. Each meeting will be divided into several components (1) an introduction to the day's special topic (2) time for each Big/Little Sister pair to discuss the topic one-on-one, , and (3) group time to talk and participate in creative and fun activities. The structure will allow us to build relationships within the group and with in each pair, to talk about important issues, and most importantly - to have fun!
Who can be a Big Sister?
If you are a female student at the University of Alabama or Shelton State Community College (Martin or C.A. Fredd Campus) you can participate. The program requires a one year commitment.
How do I apply?
Applications are accepted through mid-September of each academic year.
For more information, contact Jessi Hitchins at the Women's Resource Center at 348-5040 or by email at jlhitchins@sa.ua.edu.