Walk In It Magazine - Oct 1, 2017

GET FIT NOW 9Fitness Tips For

A HEALTHY BODY

THE BEST YOU WITHIN Building Character in Teens WEAR YOUR CONFIDENCE

THE GETAWAY

WHY TO PLAN YOUR NEXT GIRLS TRIP

LEAP TO THE NEXT LEVEL

MENTORING THAT WILL MOTIVATE YOU

DREAMS DEFERRED?

HOW TO MAKE YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE?

CONNECT YOUR

ATTIRE AND ATTITUDE

WIT INC HIGHLIGHTS Investing in

empowerment

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CONTENT

Founder’s Message..................................................................5 R.E.D.(Raising Excellent Daughters).....................................7 9 Fitness Tips for a Healthy Body...........................................8 2017-2018 Major events........................................................10 Healthy Relationship Conference.......................................... 11 4th Annual Pink and Black Gala ...........................................13 Clothed In Confidence...........................................................15 Take The LEAP!.....................................................................16 Introducing The Wishing Well With Jennell........................18 Building Good Character in Teens, and Why It Matters.......19 5 Reasons Why Every Woman Needs a Girls Weekend........20 Chapter 7 Do the Right Thing If You Have to Plot It’s a Not.22 The Founders Corner.............................................................23

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FOUNDER’S MESSAGE

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reetings! I am so pleased to welcome you to the world of Walk In It! As I reflect over the past year, and with great expectancy look forward, I am humbled. I am particularly thankful to be surrounded by an amazing team! I have an incredibly supportive family and community. From our outstanding Board of Directors, to Site Coordinators, to volunteers, I am tremendously blessed to share this journey with so many positive, purpose-filled, passionate people. As we enter this academic year, our Ladies of Distinction Program will be in 19 locations and is still growing. What an honor to help develop over 550 confident, strong, thoughtful, holistically healthy girls!

During 2017-2018 academic year Ladies of Distinction will celebrate its 10 year anniversary. Stay tuned for the launch of the L.O.D.A (Ladies of Distinction Alumni) It will be a “loda” fun! See where alumni are now and how the program impacted their lives.

Our women's conference this year was a blessing! Women from all walks of life eagerly attended. Purposes were renewed, strength received, and direction offered. Many participants asked if the 2018 Women’s Conference could be three days instead of two.

Wishing Well with Jennell is here! It has been a desire of my heart for years, but I am elated that it’s happening now. This is an additional way we want to pour back positively into the community. It's amazing how random acts of kindness, and celebrating greatness among us, can favorably impact and strengthen our community.

To every funder, individual donor, supporter, program participant, and volunteer I sincerely appreciate you joining the journey with us. As grades and self-esteem rise, behavior improves, parents are empowered, schools are succeeding, and communities and families being strengthened, we celebrate with each of you!

Let's keep walking in It!

Jennell Riddick

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WIT INC DEVELOPING LADIES OF DISTINCTION BY SERVING 19 SITES THIS 2017-2018 SCHOOL YEAR TRANSFORMING THE LIVES OF OVER 575 GIRLS EVERY MONTH

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IT Inc is privileged to have LOD (Ladies of Distinction) in 19 public schools reaching over 575 young girls per month. LOD uses the time after school for 1-on-1 mentoring, group self-esteem activities, and exposure trips with girls in 4-12 grade. LOD is the SIGNATURE PROGRAM for WIT Inc and can be added to your school, community center, or neighborhood. There are 3 LOD annual conferences including a Feb Relationship Conference, April - Girls Empowerment Conference and a Sept- Self Esteem Walk/Rally.

Want to connect? Want To Volunteer? Want to Start a LOD group in your school or community center?

Contact Us: admin@walkinit.com lementary Schools

Capron Elementary School

Booker T. Washington Suffolk, VA

Elephant’s Fork Suffolk, VA

Hillpoint Elementary Suffolk, VA

John F. Kennedy Suffolk, VA

John Yeates Suffolk, VA

King’s Fork Middle Suffolk, VA

Middle Schools

Forest Glen Middle Suffolk, VA

Meherrin Elementary Southampton County, VA

JP King Middle Franklin, VA

High Schools Deep Creek High Chesapeake, VA

King’s Fork High Suffolk, VA

Lakeland High Suffolk, VA

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Nansemond River High Suffolk, VA

Franklin High Franklin, VA

Fresh Start Center Southampton County, VA

Southampton High Southampton County, VA

Indian River High School Chesapeake VA

R.E.D.(RAISING EXCELLENT DAUGHTERS) Mothers of R.E.D. One-Day Conference Walk In It Brings Mothers and Daughters

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he Walk In It Mother/Daughter Conference was held on Saturday, April 8 from 9 am to 12 noon at John F. Kennedy Middle School in Suffolk, VA.

The girls of Ladies of Distinction (L.O.D.) and the women of Raising Excellent Daughters (R.E.D.), both programs of Walk In it, Inc. came together for the annual Mother/ Daughter Conference. The event was full of energy and offered moms and daughters times to connect and have fun together. Break-out sessions included empowerment session for the daughters and empowerment discussions for the moms that encompassed parenting tips.

As a special treat, Dr. Tamara Baldwin, Psychology Professor at Hampton University spoke about striving for excellence in every area of life. She noted that people don’t become excellent by accident, but with intentional and consistent effort. “I think the Mother/Daughter Conference really bridged some relational gaps, empowered the participants, and motivated them to increase the value of their relationships,” said Jennell Riddick, Walk In It Executive Director.

Filled with conversation and activity this conference fosters unity between the daughters and their mothers.

There was a high energy “pass the ball” down the line” race that awarded the mothers as the event winners. The ladies empowerment music helped the girls stay focused as they transitioned from session to session. Each young girl wrote memorable quotes from their mothers and then presented them. The conference ended with group photos, smiles, and healthy refreshments.

The Mother/Daughter Conference is sponsored by Walk In It, Inc. Walk In It is a non-profit, 501c3 organization, founded by Jennell Riddick in 2004. Walk In It Inc. is dedicated to the empowerment of girls and women.

Whether in the classroom, an after-school club, a conference/retreat, or personal mentorship, W.I.T positively impacts the educational and social lives of its participants. Through a combination of practical life skills and empowering life improvement strategies, W.I.T makes a difference one step at a time.

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snacks: one between breakfast and lunch, and one between lunch and dinner. "You'll have a steady stream of energy; plus, less food more often isn't as taxing on your digestive system as three big meals," explains Hood, adding that five daily feedings stabilizes your blood sugar, so you won't have crazy mood swings or hunger pangs.

Up your protein

9 FITNESS TIPS FOR A HEALTHY BODY

Use these tips from Malin Akerman's trainer, former Navy SEAL Logan Hood, to get a killer body of your own

HOW TO MOVE Do it in threes "Any workout has three variables: weights, intensity, and volume," Hood says. To keep your body guessing, focus on one variable per workout: Increase the weight but lower the number of reps one day; lower your standard weight but add a set the next; use your standard weight but do more reps faster on another.

Don't give up on the pullup Pullups, which strengthen the lats, biceps, middle back, and shoulders, are an effective upper-body exercise.

Can't squeeze one out? Hood suggests doing plank pulls: Lie with your chest under a weight bar set to knee height on a squatting rack. Grab the bar with an overhand grip and, keeping your body in one line, bend your elbows and pull your chest toward the bar. Lower back to start; do 10 reps.

Row your boat Before you strength train, spend 10 minutes on a rowing machine to get blood flowing to all the muscles and joints in your body. "It's better than a treadmill or a stationary bike because it engages your upper body and core, not just your legs," Hood says.

Short-circuit your routine Blast fat with a circuit that includes strength training and cardio: Do a set of push-ups, jump rope for a minute, do a set of squats, jump rope again; continue to alternate strength and cardio. "You're building muscle while keeping your heart rate high," Hood says.

Hood suggests a Zone-inspired diet--a balance of protein, complex carbs, and fat in every meal and snack--to protect against insulin overload.

The benefit of highquality protein, like chicken, turkey, and low-fat Greek yogurt: It contains amino acids, which help muscles recover after workouts.Â

Limit your liquids

HOW TO MUNCH

Ditch juices, vanilla lattes, and sodas-all have unneeded sugar and calories.

"You drink for three reasons," Hood says: "If you're thirsty, drink water.

If you need stimulation, drink black coffee. If you want to take the edge off, choose a mocktail or non-mixed, simple drink. In other words, no mojitos."Â

Minimize refined carbs

Yes, that means diet soda, too

Out: most breads, cookies, chocolate, white rice, nearly every cereal, honey, and anything with corn syrup or sugar.

"As soon as you swallow a refined carb, it starts to spike your blood sugar, which produces excess insulin, a hormone that can be responsible for holding on to fat stores," Hood says.

Although the science on the fake sweeteners used in diet sodas is still undecided, Hood is against them. "The sweeteners may elicit an insulin spike or, at the very least, psychologically prepare you for something sweet, but there are no calories to back the signal," he says.

Eat five times a day

By: www.womenshealth.com March 2009

That means three meals and two 8 WALK LADIES EMPOWERMENT MAGAZINE

Thank you Obicii Health Care For your Support And Contribution to the Development of Our Ladies of Distinction

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he Obici Healthcare Foundation is a private Foundation established in 2006 with assets established through the generosity of Amedeo Obici and funds from the merger of the Obici Health System and Sentara Health Care.

The Foundation is an independent entity unrelated to any other health organization.

The Foundation is governed by an independent board composed of citizens living in Suffolk and in surrounding communities in the previous service area of the Louise Obici Memorial Hospital.

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2017-2018 MAJOR EVENTS Join Us For These Upcoming WIT INC Moments

September 30, 2017 SelfEsteem Walk and Rally Sept 30, 2017 – Launch of Wishing Well With Jennellz First With Granted by End of 2017 February 10, 2018 Healthy Relationship Conference March 24, 2018 Women’s Conference April 21, 2018 Raising Excellent Daughters Event (R.E.D.) April 28, 2018 Pink and Black Fundraising Gala May 8, 2018-Give Local 757

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HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP CONFERENCE

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n Saturday, February 11, Walk In It, Inc. conducted their 17th annual Healthy Relationships Conference at Kings Fork Middle School.

The 17th annual Healthy Relationships Conference began at 9 am and ended at 9 pm and consisted of several workshops, classes, seminars, performances and concluded with a formal banquet. Walk In It Executive Director, Jennell Riddick, opened and lead the conference and was assisted by several speakers throughout the day. The morning sessions featured drama, poetry, and dance performed and presented by Kim Lee, Jasmine Smith, Janelle Majette and Shayla Gamble. Reverend Dwight S. Riddick, Jessica Dawson, Julian and Trin’ea Joyner, and Ellis Coefield, III lead workshops in communication, friendships, relationships and self-awareness throughout the afternoon sessions. The formal banquet featured dinner, games, dancing, talent showcase and a presentation of gifts.

166 girls from Ladies of Distinction, a Walk In It program, and 19 boys from the Young Men of Pride program participated in the Conference. These programs operate throughout the year at different sites in Suffolk, VA. Each year, the programs come together at The Healthy Relationships Conference to celebrate, encourage and understand the importance of positive self-identity, how to choose friends wisely, how to respectively relate with peers and adults, how to handle difficult people and how to safely use social media.

The Healthy Relationships Conference was sponsored by Walk In It and with special consideration from Suffolk Public Schools and Kings Fork Middle School. Walk In It is a non-profit, 501c3 organization, founded by Jennell Riddick in 2006. Walk In It Inc. is dedicated to the empowerment of girls and women. Whether in the classroom, an after-school club, a conference/retreat, or personal mentorship, W.I.T positively impacts the educational and social lives of its participants. Through a combination of practical life skills and empowering life improvement strategies, W.I.T makes a difference one step at a time.

Founder, Reverend Jennell Riddick, is driven to make a difference through her organization. “I am honored to help our students understand that they deserve and can have healthy relationships in every area of their lives,” said Riddick, “during the Conference they were given the V.I.P. treatment to let them know how valuable they are to us and to encourage them to constantly carry themselves with dignity and respect at home, school and throughout the community.”

Through Walk In It initiatives and programming the organization has successfully assisted in the empowerment and molding of thousands of girls throughout Western Tidewater since 2006. 98% of Walk In It participants attend college, 65% improve by at least one letter grade in targeted subject area, and 75% receive fewer or no behavioral infractions in school.

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4TH ANNUAL PINK AND BLACK GALA

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n April 29, 2017, Walk In It, Inc hosted the 4th Annual Pink and Black Gala at the Transformation Center in Newport News, VA. With approximately 155 people in attendance, the night was purposed to honor students and women of high achievement while raising funds to provide more opportunities for WIT Inc programs.

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he 4th Annual Pink and Black Gala began with greetings from Walk In It, Inc. Executive Director, Jennell Riddick. Followed by a gourmet dinner catered by the Transformation Place staff. After the meal, the live auction began and featured artwork created by the girls of the Ladies of Distinction Program along with other special items. After the auction, special guest speaker, Dr. Tamara Baldwin provided an inspirational and moving speech about the importance of good mentors. “Dr. Baldwin is a dynamic and amazing speaker, we were very fortunate to hear her speech at the event,” said Riddick.

Following Dr. Baldwin, Executive Director presented the Ladies of Distinction of the Year awards with the help of representatives from each of the 17 participating schools. This honor was bestowed to participants who uphold Lady of Distinction principles, demonstrate leadership and are striving for excellence academically, socially and physically. Immediately following, the Stiletto Awards were presented to Dr. Tamara Baldwin, Mrs. Vickie Madison and Mrs. Audrey Lee. The Stiletto Awards are given to women who “walk tall among us” and demonstrate excellence in their individual spheres of influence.

In addition to the awards, the 2017 Site of the Year was presented to Kings Fork Middle School and Site Coordinator, Monica Vaughn. In addition to consistent meeting Kings Fork Middle School has hosted multiple Lady of Distinction events, “Get Fit” Health Days, and demonstrated academic and social improvement among participants. Also, receiving a special

award was John F. Kennedy Middle School and Site Coordinators Latanya Brinkley and Renita Langston. This Outstanding Site Award was presented to John F. Kennedy Middle School as they have one of the largest site enrollments and are always ready for activities and produce consistent attendance. The night concluded after site awards were presented.

The Gala raised over $5,000 for the local non-profit organization. “It is wonderful that so many people came out to show support for Walk In It,” said Riddick, “the night was beautiful and I am extremely grateful to Gethsemane Baptist Church, their staff and everyone who attended,” she added.

Walk In It is a non-profit, 501c3 organization, founded by Jennell Riddick in 2004. Walk In It Inc. is dedicated to the empowerment of girls and women. Whether in the classroom, an after-school club, a conference/ retreat, or personal mentorship, W.I.T positively impacts the educational and social lives of its participants. Through a combination of practical life skills and empowering life improvement strategies, W.I.T makes a difference one step at a time.

Through Walk In It initiatives and programming the organization has successfully assisted in the empowerment and molding of thousands of girls throughout Western Tidewater since 2004. 8 of 10 Walk In It participants attend college, 65% improve by at least one letter grade in targeted subject area, and 75% receive fewer or no behavioral infractions in school.

To learn more about Walk In It and Jennell Riddick, you can visit www. walkinit.com.

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CLOTHED IN CONFIDENCE

ith all of the social media access, tv images, and advertising going on around us, life becomes very complex. These images we see not only effect our culture, but it also create the newest attire trends. However, you don’t have to get caught up in the newest trends to feel fabulous, look cute, dress beautifully, or be comfortable. Remember you are most attractive when you are confident. When you have confidence you can outlast any and all fashion trends. Here are a few ways to be fashion conscious, trendy, and confident.

Ladies Of Distincion TREND OF FASHION CONFIDENCE: Buy classic pieces It’s essential to have some classic, very simple pieces in your wardrobe. Classics are not dated and not too extreme but can be dressed up with accessories.

Classics include: Jeans, basic skirt, well made shirt, simple dress, sweater or khaki anything. Usually your classics are going to be a solid color, or maybe one pattern only.

Accent colors & Accessories pop Coupled with your classics, add some extra pop to any outfit with the right accessory. The accessory could be a bright color, necklace, bracelets, watch, scarf, sweater, purse or shoes.

Go Mix and Match When purchasing clothes see if you can use that piece with some other article of clothing you have to create multiple combinations. This is important to confidant as you most likely won’t buy new clothes every month. This is usually done by choosing a few neutral colors for the season and using the accents to make them pop. The rule of “3” Need a quick outfit, the rule of 3 helps you become fashionable and confident quickly. Just choose 3 colors. Two of the colors will be your base, and the third is the accent.

Dazzle once a week Try to wear something once a week that really stand-outs. While you want to look great every day, be intentional about putting some work into creating an eye-catching ensemble weekly or bi-weekly. This will drastically raise your confidence and give you a touch of fashion forward flare.

Clean on Cold and low. Iron have different cuts, fits, and feels.

Each person has their own body type, Your Investment Cold water helps your clothes last longer and you won’t have to go through the hassle of buying new clothes as often. Wash jeans inside out and remember wrinkle free clothes last longer so iron them when possible.

Remember you spent money on this wardrobe it an investment to be taken care of.

Plan for the occasion Always consider where you are wearing this. Meet your schools dress code and make sure there you properly plan for what activities will be taking place before you decide what you will wear. Then ask yourself, will I be comfortable in this, doing that?

Create a GOLDEN rule The “Golden Rule” of fashion refers to the maximum number of accessories you will allow yourself to wear at one time. This is based on your opinion. Some like layer necklaces and stacked bracelets while others prefer chic minimalist styles with just one or two. You can always change the rule as your personality changes, but be sure to have a rule for now.

Be “YOUnique” At the end of the day your confidence and clothing are all about you. Create your own style, DO NOT just wear it because everyone does. Make sure it fits YOUR BODY SHAPE, and YOUR personality.

Clothe your body, not someone else's Flatter yourself with clothes that fit you. Different articles of clothing

embrace yours. We come in different perfect shapes: Apple, Pear, Hour Glass, Diamond, Straight, Spoon, Inverted Triangle and others. Clothes are not one size fits all, so found the one that covers all of you comfortably.

Let go of the old Go through your wardrobe and everything that doesn’t fit or is too old, bag it and hide it from yourself under the bed, closet, sell them or give them away to a clothing shelter. You just want to get it out of sight so they are not a temptation to wear. Faded and torn clothes don’t make for a confident and fashionable lady.

Color match your skin tone If you don’t like a color don’t wear it.

However, be sure the colors that you do like go well with your skin tone and make you feel good. Clothes that go well with your skin tone are a part of creating a great outfit.

Be comfortable before cute If it feels good on you, you will more likely feel good while in it. Remember you are only as cute, chic, attractive or confident as you feel. The goal is to look good for yourself before you attempt to look good for others. If you are pleased with how you feel in it, then go for it. So, even more than how your clothes or shoes look, be sure you are comfortable in how you feel in them. If you have to keep pulling it down, tugging it up, or you looking at it to make sure it matches; there’s a great chance that you are fully comfortable.

Go to outfit B.

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GG TAKE A LEAP and join the Partnership GG Get Motivational Messages GG Learn More about a customized MENTORSHIP with both Dr Angel & Jennell GG Connect to other Women Aspiring to achieve Purpose

TAKE THE LEAP!

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hat if you had a connection with women who are willing to take the mask off and share with you the honest truth about struggling with sermon development, the midnight moments of ministry, and the futuristic fortitude needed to juggle family and friendships? This is what L.E.A.P. is all about. A moment during your week to join in with other women and know: “You’re not alone.”

Come join us as we share and exchange Wisdom and the Word of God. Let’s take each other’s hands and L.E.A.P.!!!

Lead Mentors Dr Angel White & Rev. Jennell Riddick

VIA TEXT MESSAGE:

FIND US ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM www.facebook.com/leap facebook.com/leapladiesnow Text leap now https://twitter.com/leapladies To 81010 https://www.instagram.com/leapladies/ Or Join Here remind.com/join/leapladies Get Information, Life Transforming Messages, Empowerment Tools Via Email http://eepurl.com/cddNAT

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2017 WOMENS EMPOWERMENT CONFERENCE: I WAS MADE FOR THIS t all happened on Friday, March 24 and Saturday March 25, Walk In It, Inc. will be hosting the 7th Annual Women’s Conference at the Doubletree by Hilton in Williamsburg, VA. The theme for the 7th annual Women’s Conference is “Walking In Your New Thing” taken from Isaiah 43:19.

Women of faith will gather together to fellowship, be empowered and learn to unapologetically walk in all that has been ordained for their lives. Special speakers and presenters include Rev. Pamela McLaughlin, Pastor Kim White, Rev. Charla Armstead, and Karen Portman.

Registration included Friday comedy night, buffet luncheon, conference materials, and 5 dynamic sessions.

The Walk In It Women’s Conference was a great success. Returning and new participants gathered in great expectation. The Women’s Conference is always a great time of refreshing for attendees. Women from various churches, organizations, and communities came to be part of this empowering event.

Friday night opened with a comedy night. It was a great opportunity for the ladies to unwind and relax. Women play so many roles and don't often take time for themselves. It was great to hear the room erupt with contagious laughter. As tears of joy rolled down faces, and stomachs were grasped with gut bursting laughs, it was beautiful to see the excitement in the room.

From powerful worship to lifechanging workshops Saturday was packed with interactive sessions and a wonderful fellowship luncheon.

The conference grows every year and women are already looking forward to the 2018 conference which will be held March 23-24. Plan to attend the 2018 Conference by registering at www.walkinit.com/witwomen. Special hotel rates apply and can be accessed by emailing walkinitinc@yahoo.com.

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INTRODUCING

THE WISHING WELL WITH JENNELL What is Wishing Well with Jennell?

It is an outreach program of Walk In It Inc. that seeks to offer acts of kindness to those in our community. We believe that it is important to encourage those who are working hard and/or making a positive impact. We believe that is is important to acknowledge and celebrate the greatness around us.

Who is eligible? Anyone is eligible! You can nominate someone else or yourself.

What are examples of some of the wishes that may be granted?

Put in your request and let us know!

Perhaps you always wanted to go back and thank that teacher who made a difference for you at a crucial time in your life.

Maybe there is someone at your school, in your neighborhood, or on your job who just makes life better for others and you want to let them know by having them surprised with something that will be meaningful for them. Maybe you have dreamed of being on the radio or tv to make your voice heard‌Make your wish!

When can the wishes be submitted?

Now. Visit witwishingwell.com.The application is up and ready.

How often will wishes be granted?

We plan to grant wishes quarterly. The first wish will be granted by The end of December 2017.

Make Your Wish Today at

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BUILDING GOOD CHARACTER IN TEENS, AND WHY IT MATTERS

BY ANDI ATKINSON MARINE MILITARY BLOG

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eenagers have just a few short years before they leave for college and begin

making a life for themselves. It is crucial for teens to develop good character so they can be mentally equipped to make wise, moral decisions and overcome any obstacles life throws their way. Not only will they end up leading happier lives, they will end up leading more successful lives.

usually adopt the character traits, good or bad, that they observe the most from parents, teachers, friends and relatives.

Though you cannot control what others do, your everyday actions can teach your child integrity.

All companies and organizations want: GG A reliable person with a strong

work ethic and a commitment to quality.

GG A team player who respects others and helps others to achieve a greater goal.

GG A responsible man or woman who will make wise choices and hold him or herself accountable.

GG A moral individual who can be trusted with people and money.

do not spread it yourself. If your teen cheats on a test, hold him or her accountable by taking away privileges.

Good character does not happen on its own, however. It is the result of years of learned behavior as well as strong mentoring.

Understand that character development is a process, not a course. If you want your young adult to mature into an honorable person, follow four basic rules:

If you truly want your teen to become an upright individual, you need to make character development a priority. Read on to learn why character is so important and what you can do to build it.

Why Does Good Character Matter?

Becoming a man or woman people will admire, respect and trust is reason enough to develop excellent character. Good char-

1) Teach the ethics and values that will guide their behavior early on.

Again, employers want people who will do the right thing when no one is looking. It is actually much easier to teach a job skill than it is to teach good character, which is why many companies/organizations follow this mantra: Hire for attitude. Train for skill.

Good character is of even greater importance to the self-employed. After all, no one wants to hire someone with a reputation for being unavailable or undependable, delivering shoddy work or cheating clients out of money.

acter truly does matter in life because the choices of today impact the future of tomorrow. Smart decisions have rewards, but poor decisions have consequences that can spoil future opportunities.

Strengthening your teen’s character will also position him or her for greater career advancement.

If you would like your son or daughter to care about others, then volunteer yourself.

If you do not want your child to gossip, then

Teens with grounded character also grow up to be the most responsible leaders in government and their communities.

In short, teaching teens key traits, such as responsibility, hard work and honesty, in their formative years will give them the best chance at lifelong success.

2) Address and correct inappropriate behaviors and administer consequences for poor choices.

3) Set the example.

4) Repeat the above steps every day.

Also, if your son or daughter does not already belong to a Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts troop, sign him or her up. The whole purpose of these organizations is to instill time-honored values in young people who they can be prepared to make moral and ethical choices.

Your teen may not understand or appreciate what you are trying to instill in him or her, but your adult son or daughter just might thank you for it some day.

How to Build Good Character When it comes to character development, actions speak louder than words. Teens will

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during a girls weekend, some comfort food, a nice hike or a bike ride through a vineyard. Totally refreshing.

5

ë

Pure honesty. Whether you’re the one opening up or the one suggesting a potential solution, you don’t have to fake any of it. Hate your job because your boss is miserably

REASONS Ñ

WHY EVERY WOMAN NEEDS A GIRLS WEEKEND

BY ABBY DRAPER

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hile spending time with your significant other, children if applicable, colleagues and acquaintances is wonderful and important, every woman needs a good “girls weekend“ every so often, at any age. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy or elaborate, but a simple few days away from the norm with some women you trust is a special kind of cleanse, especially when you’re going through a tough time.

A girls trip, women’s conference, or ladies retreat is a necessary part of your life. Why?

Total vulnerability. You don’t have to wear makeup, or shower, or shave your legs if you don’t want to. Feeling super insecure about those five pounds you can’t lose? No one cares, let it all hang out. Want to sit in the middle of the living room, eat all of the ice-cream you want and cry your head off? This is the time to do it.

ù

No judgment. Ready for more ice-cream? So is everyone else in the room. Fart in your sleep? Giggles ensue. Feel like spending the morning naked? Go for it. No one cares, it’s amazing. I will never forget a morning of a girls weekend where I was sitting in the middle of the kitchen, drinking coffee, naked, while blow-drying my hair. Everyone laughed, and now it’s a hilarious tradition and fond memory.

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ä

Complete relaxation. I’ve spent entire mornings during a girls weekend, sitting in a robe on the couch reading a great book next to five other women who haven’t said a word to each other. Bliss.

Usually there is some sort of spa treatment

awful to you? Haven’t had sex with your husband in a month? Decided to get Botox? Let it all out, girl, because everyone there gets it.

ö

Boy talk. If you’re 12, 25, 40 or 75, boy talk never gets old. Single?

Share your crushes. Married and having amazing sex? We know you want to talk about every single detail, and your girls want to hear them. All of them. Is he driving you crazy? Ugh, let’s vent and complain all about it until you feel better.

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an’t get away for a weekend? Have a sleepover in the city you live in.

Can’t go far? There is likely a different city with a hotel or a cute B&B close to you that may even have a Groupon deal. So ladies, call your girlfriends and plan your next girls weekend, retreat, or attend a conference.

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT We have the greatest Board of Directors

WIT INC and Ladies of Distinction have been featured in the Hampton Roads Foundation Annual Report.

Thanks to all of our individual donors like Willie & Archie Walkers

Mike Smith & Affordable Business Solutions

Latora Cason & American Funds

willie and Archie walker

LADIES EMPOWERMENT MAGAZINE WALK 21

CHAPTER 7

DO THE RIGHT THING IF YOU HAVE TO PLOT IT’S A NOT

BY JENNELL RIDDICK “Character is doing the right thing when nobody’s looking. There are too many people who think that the only thing that’s right is to get by, and the only thing that’s wrong is to get caught.”

Y

–J.C. Watts

ou know right from wrong.

You know things that are going to help you move forward and things that can push you back. You are smart. What we must remember however, is that even smart people make poor decisions sometimes. Some of us even go as far as pre-planning unethical behavior. That’s called a plot.

A plot is when you have to scheme and come up with a plan in order to carry out something that you know you are not supposed to do. Let’s pause here. If you have to go through a lot of underhanded stuff to carry out your plan, you already know that it’s something that you should not be doing. If you have to plot, it’s already a not. Here are some examples of plots that lead to problems.

Plot 1-When you tell your parents that you are going to stay with a friend, but you don’t go to that friend’s house at all. You know that you probably shouldn’t go there, so you lied in order to make it work.

Plot 2-When you know that you are not supposed to wear that outfit so you end up packing the clothes, wearing something different, and changing once you get where you are trying to go.

Plot 3-You want someone to come over when your parents are not home, so instead

of asking permission you try to sneak the person in and have them out before your parents get home. If you have to go through all of that, you already know that is not the best choice for you.

Why is plotting bad? Plotting wrong behavior sets you up for failure. Whenever you intentionally do something that you know is wrong, look out. The consequences may be more than you anticipate.

Rule of Thumb 1: If it has to be on the down low, you probably shouldn’t be down with it. Good things are worth sharing. If you steal the item, you can’t proudly show it to

Get Your Copy of Any of These Great Resources Today at www.walkinit.com your friends. If you cheat on the test, you can’t celebrate the grade. If you are dating a person you know you shouldn’t, you can’t go out in public or admit that you all are even together.

Come on!

Your life is more valuable than that.

Rule of Thumb 2: If it is going to lead to guilt, it must go. Is the activity that you are plotting or planning going to make you feel embarrassed or guilty later? Think before you commit the act.

Rule of Thumb 3: If you have to lie, say goodbye. One lie leads to another, and another. Before you know it, lying has become a way of life. That is not the person you want to be. You may say, “It’s no big deal, It’s just a little lie.” That’s how it often starts. Little lies turn into medium lies and so on. Don’t set yourself up like that.

If someone is trying to put you in a situation that you are not comfortable in, you can say no. You don’t have to plot

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negative behavior or go along with the crowd just because you don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings or because you don’t want to be looked at as being afraid.

So what if people think you are afraid? That’s much better than being pressured to do something and then having to face the consequence. If you have to fear someone finding out, it is already something you know that you are not supposed to do.

Ladies, think before you act. A wrong decision can mess up all that you have been working for and dreaming of. Is the activity going to be fun for the moment, but then hurt you in the long run? Let’s be real. Is losing your parent’s trust worth sneaking out to that one party? Is it worth it to ruin your reputation and be disrespected by others all because you didn’t want to stand up to your friends during a dare? Look at the big picture!

Success Secrets 1. What we must remember is that even smart people make poor decisions sometimes.

2. If you have to go through a lot of underhanded stuff to carry out your plan, you already know that it is something that you should not be doing.

3. Whenever you intentionally do something that you know is wrong, lookout.

The consequences may be more than you anticipate.

4. Good things are worth sharing.

5. Rule of Thumb 3: If you have to lie, say goodbye.

Walk the Talk 1. Practice thinking about the long-term results before you do something.

2. Don’t join in with other people who are plotting unethical behavior.

3. Be intentional about sharing the positive things in your life with someone who can genuinely celebrate with you.

THE FOUNDERS CORNER To accompany her Bachelor’s degree from University of Richmond, and Masters degree from Va Union University, she is currently in her doctoral candidacy phase with anticipated graduation date May 2018 with a Doctoral Degree from CTS in Chicago Theological. Pictured with her husband Dr Dwight Riddick and Dean Dr Gennifer Brooks

Our Founder walks out what she talks about. Along with many monthly speaking engagements here are a few of her most recent awards. We congratulate her on all of her accomplishments and soon to come Doctorate degree.

LEAD 2 FEED Empowered to Lead. Inspired to Serve.

Today, five student teams from middle and high schools across the country have won the fifth annual Lead2Feed Challenge and will be awarded $20,000 each for their school’s nonprofit of choice and $10,000 technology grants for their school. Since its inception five years ago, the Lead2Feed Student Leadership Program is the nation’s leading and fastest growing free student leadership program, attracting more than one million students from 5,000 schools and clubs across all 50 states. This year, the Ladies of Distinction From Southampton Middle School won this Lead 2 Feed Grant this year and have awarded LOD $10k to assist with programs!

Pictured here with Suffolk, VA Mayor Linda Johnson

Keynote Speaker at the Launch of PurposeHer the new business of Keshia Brown (Pictured with Keshia Brown)

Keynote Speaker of the Connecting Women of Color Conference at her alma mater the prestigious University of Richmond

Our FOUNDER Received a HEART of a MENTOR award from the city of Suffolk.

Keynote Speaker at the International Daughters of Virtue Retreat in Panama City Florida where she spoke to a a multi-cultural group of 75 elite business women.

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