New people, new environments, and new experiences may intimidate some people, but not Abby Heilig! At age 16, Abby joined Empower U, a program for teen girls at the Central Bucks Family YMCA that teaches skills for fitness, leadership, self-esteem and making independent decisions for today and beyond.
Abby arrived on the first day of Empower U as a quiet but upbeat girl. She spent 8 weeks doing group supported workouts, attending health workshops and getting to know the other girls in the program. By the time the program concluded, she had evolved into a sophisticated, driven, and confident young woman with a new vision for her future and a new group of friends. She now looks forward to pursuing college and further exploring the skills she learned in Empower U, such as nutrition and making healthy lifestyle choices.
As an Empower U graduate, she advocates for other girls her age to get involved in the program, believing that all girls could benefit from the safe, supportive, and empowering environment that the Y provides for teenage girls.
Empower U is a program in partnership with the Bucks County Women’s Initiative of the United Way that enhances self-image in girls grades 10-12 through physical activity, healthy relationships, and confidence building.
There are two upcoming sessions of the 8 week program:
- Winter Session: Jan 6 – Feb 26
- Spring 1 Session: Mar 3 – Apr 23
The flyer can be seen here. If you or someone you know is interested in this program, please connect with Brooke Volpe, at 215 348 8131 x3010 or bvolpe@cbfymca.org for details.
About CBFYMCA: Central Bucks Family YMCA is a charitable non-profit organization whose purpose is to improve the quality of community life. The Y strengthens the spirit, mind and body of its members. We build character by promoting the values of caring, respect, honesty and responsibility.
About the contributor: Cheryl Brubaker is the Senior Director of Development at Central Bucks Family YMCA. With an extensive background in social work and fundraising, she is an advocate for transformational giving. Central Bucks Family YMCA strengthens community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For more information visit www.cbfymca.org or email Cheryl at cbrubaker@cbfymca.org.