By Marilyn Miller

“We started Rising Stars to give the youth in our community a safe space to grow, learn, and shine,” said Quinterya Jackson, founder of the non-profit which has been growing by leaps and bounds during its first year. “We wanted to create something meaningful that prepares our youth for life, not just today.”

Since launching on Oct. 23, 2024, the program has covered hygiene and self-care lessons, mental health and confidence building; drugs, alcohol and peer pressure awareness; sisterhood and safe spaces, time and money management skills; education, career talk and goal setting, public speaking, The young ladies have also heard real-life experiences from guest speakers, have performed community service activities, taken field trips, and much more.

“We have had two fundraisers this year, but as a non-profit organization, most things, such as snacks, meeting supplies and other necessities are funded by me and our co-founder, Charite Weston,” Ms. Jackson said. “Our future plans are to continue growing our program, to expand our resources, and to provide even more opportunities for our youth through community partnerships, college tours, and educational workshops.”

The two leaders also plan to teach basic life skills such as cooking, and to prepare them for success in school, college and beyond.

“Our long-term goal is to have our own building, where we can host workshops, events, and more that help youth learn, grow, and step confidently into their future,” Ms. Jackson said.

Quinterya and Charite may be contacted at rsmentorship24@gmail.com if you have any questions, want to donate to future activities, or want to be a guest speaker.

The group can also be reached at rsmentorship on Instagram and the Rising Stars Mentorship Program on Facebook.