POINT HOPE TEENISTA
The Point Hope Teenista doesn't have to be huge, although sometimes enough good comes together in one place with volunteers (such as those pictured) that the Teenista seems very huge--in an excellent way!
The idea of a "Teenista"...
The term "Teenista" came from the merging "Teen" and "Fashionista" and is a fun way to think of how a teenage girl in foster care might like to spend a day--shopping, getting their hair and make-up done, having professional photographers capture their uniqueness, eating, laughing, and feeling valued.
- One idea is to throw a big Christmas Teenista, including gift-shopping and wrapping for family and friends, as well as receiving a few gifts of their own.
Have pretty tables, with fancy settings and take-away table-gifts, so young ladies who may never have had an elegant dining experience will know they are worthy and deserving of festive and special treatment.
- Another idea is to hold a Spring Formal Teenista, where dresses and shoes, hair and make-up, and a special dinner is all set to music and they are able to dance the night away--either by being transported to a school function or arranging a dance function as part of the event.
“I asked to postpone my adoption until I could come to the Teenista, because it sounded like it would be so much fun! I’m so glad I did!”
These are just two suggestions. There are many different scenarios where a teen girl in foster care doesn't normally have the opportunity to participate in special event like other girls her age--think about what was a special moment to you and recreate that for a group of girls in your local area!
For more information on establishing a Points of Hope chapter and hosting a Teenista in your area, please contact Point Hope's Domestic Program Coordinator: Erin@PointHope.org
“It was amazing to see the change in the girls expressions and body language from the moment they first walked in the door to the moment they left. Their smiles said it all, this event changed their lives!”
This day will not solve any long-term problems, but it will challenge the girls and the volunteers to be aware that none of us should be restricted by our circumstances, but we are responsible for our choices. And it may be the only glimpse offered in a young woman's life to know that there truly is HOPE in her future.
