17: Lifting Up the Next Generations Through the Chrysalis Project with Leana Walcott

We know it’s important to be a good role model for those who are watching us–and they are always there whether we see them or not. Today’s conversation highlights a wonderful non-profit that resulted from a desire to help young women BE better and DO better. It’s a program that should be available to young people all across our country! Join us to learn more about this inspiring project!Leana Walcott has a career in finance, but she worked for many years with young people through summer youth programs in Brooklyn. She believes that young women need a safe and nurturing space that can be a sounding board for their fears, a developmental haven for their professional interests and goals, and a prism that allows them to see and connect to positive and progressive women. Her vision led to the creation of The Chrysalis Project in 2014. This nonprofit creates avenues allowing young women to be nurtured and prepared to go through high school and be ready to face their college years with confidence and goal readiness. Show Highlights:Leana’s professional background in finance and her lifelong passion to have a positive impact on kidsHow and why she started her non-profit to help young womenHow Leana decided on the name for her program, which is based on the transformation story of the beautiful butterflyHow Leana’s organization works with young women through their high school and college yearsHow the program focuses on teaching the principles of financial health, health and wellness, the arts, and how to dress for successHow the “one word” system works within the program, along with bringing in professionals to teach and train the young womenHow Leana works to get the community involved in the Chrysalis ProjectLeana shares specific examples of the success of the program in the lives of young womenThe importance of young women learning to be who they are in their space without being apologetic about itHow the Chrysalis Project works with parents of the young women and partners with schools to identify the girls who would benefit from the programLeana’s advice about starting a non-profit from a basic idea to help othersLeana’s best advice to those who mentor young women: “Be honest and be caring. Giving of yourself to help someone else requires honesty. Find a way to create a bond with them, and be a friend who loves on them.”What’s next for Leana and the Chrysalis ProjectResources:Connect with Leana and the Chrysalis Project:  www.chrysalisprojectinc.com  Email: [email protected] or call 908-566-6402Want more Gayle and Tia? Join our Vibe Tribe on Facebook. Find us on Instagram.