(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK—ENN)— SAN BERNARDINO, CA— One of the keys to being successful is having a mentor. A mentor can offer guidance, wisdom, and provide you with insights on how to achieve personal, career, and spiritual goals. In 1998, during her tenure as chairperson of the Deaconess ministry at Temple Missionary Baptist Church, Kathy Barnes led a group of women to become mentors to the girls in their congregation and community. Their vision came to fruition in 2000 through the Ladies of Virtue Mentoring program. The mentors set out to be living examples, foster morals and values, increase self-esteem, and shape tomorrow’s Christian women.
The Ladies of Virtue is a one-to-one mentor program where the girls are paired with a carefully selected woman. Ten characteristics known as virtues are used as tools to enhance their inner spirit. They participate in bible studies, career exploration, group activities and outings to educate them on how to become successful women of God. Additionally, each girl is required to perform at least 50 hours of community service.
On Saturday, May 25, 2019 at 2:00pm the Ladies of Virtue will celebrate their 20th Anniversary as they host their Annual Presentation of the girls who completed the program this year. Former mentors and mentees have been invited as the guests of honor. The community is invited to attend this free celebration and presentation which will be held at the Center for Youth and Community Development, 1189 W. 9th Street, San Bernardino, CA 92411.
Under the leadership of this year’s chairperson, Lisa Blacksher, the following girls will be presented to the community having successfully completed the program.