Distinctively Me is dedicated to strengthening the social, emotional, and cultural development of adolescent Black girls in underserved Chicagoland communities. Distinctively Me provides a safe and creative space where the mental wellbeing and narratives of adolescent Black girls are nurtured, valued, and expressed through creativity, conversation, and education. The program helps girls from grades 6 to 12 learn about and strengthen their mental health.
According to the Journal of Child and Family Studies, Black adolescents living in urban, under-resourced environments face a higher risk of poor mental health due to increased exposure to violence and other traumatic events. In response, Distinctively Me helps to increase attention and prevention efforts and address mental health disparities impacting Black girls on Chicago’s Southside by offering community-based workshops, school-based programs exploring identities, and summer programs focused on creative expression.
The Girls Opportunity Alliance Fund will support the Creative Arts & Chats program, a series of community-based workshops that provide a safe and inclusive space for Black adolescent girls in Auburn Gresham from grades six to 12. Participants will engage in two-hour workshops focused on creative expression through activities like painting, drawing, writing, and crafting. During these sessions, girls are encouraged to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Trained facilitators will lead discussions on topics relevant to the experiences of Black girls, such as identity, self-worth, friendships, societal pressures, and mental wellbeing. Ultimately, the goal of these workshops is to empower adolescent girls to embrace their identities, cultivate resilience, and thrive in all aspects of their lives, laying the foundation for a brighter future.
For more information about Distinctively Me, please visit the organization’s website and social media pages:
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