Minority Impact Statement

Problem/Need:

Minority youth, especially girls from African American and Hispanic backgrounds, often face multiple layers of adversity, including higher rates of exposure to violence, systemic inequities, and limited access to mental health resources. These factors can lead to significant emotional trauma, academic underachievement, and involvement in the juvenile justice system. This program addresses these disparities by focusing on trauma-informed care, emotional resilience, and the empowerment of minority youth.

 

Program Impact:

Chic’s curriculum and programming, such as the "How to Be… Chic" sessions and "Unpacking the Emotional Suitcase" guide, specifically cater to the needs of minority girls by providing culturally sensitive tools for emotional and social development. The 35-week program is designed to improve emotional health and social interactions, reduce aggression and violent behavior, reduce behavior referrals, improve communication skills, increase capacity for problem-solving and conflict resolution, increase self-efficacy, boost self-confidence, improve interpersonal relationships, and develop coping strategies tailored to the lived experiences of minority youth. By incorporating the voices of African American and Hispanic girls through initiatives like "The Talking Wall," Chic empowers these youth to advocate for themselves and influence the systems that affect their lives.

 

Long-Term Benefits:

The expected outcomes of the grant include increased emotional resilience, improved social skills, and a greater sense of identity among minority participants. By promoting a sense of community and belonging, Chic helps reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues in minority communities. Additionally, the program aims to decrease the likelihood of minority youth becoming involved in violence or entering the juvenile justice system. In the long term, the initiative will foster systemic changes that benefit all youth, with minority girls being central to this transformative process.

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Commitment to Inclusivity:

Chic is committed to ongoing evaluation and adaptation of its programs to ensure they meet the needs of minority youth effectively. This includes continuous feedback loops with participants, partnerships with organizations that serve minority communities, and training staff in cultural competence. By doing so, Chic ensures that its efforts lead to a safer, more supportive environment for all youth, particularly those from minority backgrounds. By investing in the emotional and social well-being of minority youth, this grant will contribute to breaking the cycle of trauma and adversity, empowering girls to

thrive and become leaders in their communities.

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