Girl talk 2012 handbook

Girl Talk

A girl talk girl is like a caterpillar who seeks to become herself...a beautiful butterfly. — Erynn Mozier

Letter From Girl Talk’s Founder Dear Girls, At the age of fifteen, I had a dream that every middle school girl would have a place she could go to just let her hair down and be free to express who she truly is. Today, one girl at a time, my dream is becoming a reality.

As you read this Handbook, my hope is that you will feel a “desire to inspire” teenage girls, just as Girl Talk will inspire you. Girl Talk’s purpose is to give girls a place to go to openly talk about issues they face daily and as a result, get much needed advice from Leaders like you! For me, I found it easiest to give advice from my own personal experiences. With your help, I believe together we can create a solid foundation for young teenagers everywhere. Your participation will not only make a difference in middle school girls’ lives, but in your life as well.

I want to truly thank you for wanting to be a part of Girl Talk. It’s Leaders like you that make this program successful. Know that we at Girl Talk are here to help you. Our website is full of resources to ensure your program’s success.

Lastly, I’d like to leave you with some “Beauty Tips” that Audrey Hepburn highly recommended for every girl!

“For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry. For beautiful hair, let a friend run her fingers through it once a day. For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone. People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anyone. Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms. As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.”

Haley Kilpatrick

Girl Talk, Inc. Founder & Executive Director

Table Of Contents Section One About Girl Talk What Is Girl Talk?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 History of Girl Talk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Section Two

Getting Started

Get Organized

Why Do I Need This Handbook?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Leader Expectations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Getting Started and Approved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Leadership & Advisor Contracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Learn to Manage and Delegate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Create an Anonymous Question Box. . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Get the Word Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Prepare for the Meeting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Now That You’re Official...

Running Your Chapter

Leader Login. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Leader Lessons & Worksheets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Complete List of Lesson Topics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Tips for Chapter Success & Sustainability . . . . . . . . 26

Sample Meeting Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Introduce Yourself. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Tips & Ideas for Successful Chapter Meetings. . . . .34 Get Involved in Your Community. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Report Back to Us. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Section Three Get TO KNOW GIRL TALK Glossary of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Timeout for Testimonials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Frequently Asked Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Girl Talk Scholarships. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

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Section One

About Girl Talk Getting Started Now That You’re Official

Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

What is Girl Talk?

Mission Statement Reaching more than 30,000 girls in forty-three states and six countries, Girl Talk is a 501(c)3 national nonprofit organization that establishes positive weekly peer-to-peer mentoring programs for middle school girls, which are led by high school girls. We exist to help young teenage girls build self-esteem, develop leadership skills, and recognize the value of community service.

Girl Talk is a nationally recognized mentoring program that offers fun, positive weekly meetings, community service projects and friendship-building activities for middle school girls.

Girl Talk Chapters are led by high school girls (“Leaders”) who serve as mentors, and in turn, Girl Talk Leaders develop leadership skills that they will carry with them throughout life. Girl Talk Chapters help young teenage girls build selfesteem, develop leadership skills and recognize the value of community service.

Girl Talk is free to any high school girl who wants to make a difference in her community by “Starting a Girl Talk Chapter” (Visit www.desiretoinspire.org and click “Start a Chapter”). All Girl Talk materials are available on our website.

Our online community (Leader Login Section) provides you with all of the “Leader Resources” you will need to ensure your Chapter’s success (i.e. Leader Lessons, scholarship applications, Girl Talk Blog, Leader and Advisor discussion boards, upload pictures of your Chapter, download graphics to design flyers, etc.).

Girl Talk is designed to reach ALL middle school girls. Therefore, we welcome non-traditional Chapters (home school, athletic teams, youth groups, churches, neighborhood clubs, etc.) as well. We encourage high school girls to think outside the box if their school is unable to host Girl Talk meetings before or after school. Everything you need to know about “Starting a Chapter” is on our website (www.desiretoinspire.org).

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

History of Girl Talk

How Girl Talk Got Its Start Middle school. Who likes middle school? Words can be hurtful, you feel like nobody gets you and all you want to do is “fit in”. Wait. You mean there is someone other than you that feels the same way? The answer is yes. You are not alone. As a matter of fact, this is how our story starts. It’s about a young girl who at times, felt left out when she was in middle school. As middle school came and went, things started to shape up and high school was a lot easier. After talking with friends about middle school, the young girl realized that even though she felt like she was the only one she wasn’t alone. She realized this was a problem that affected EVERY girl at some point in her middle school life, and this is how Girl Talk was born.

At 15 years old, Albany, GA native, Haley Kilpatrick wanted to make a difference. The idea was a program that would help girls get through their challenging middle school years, with the help of high school girls. She thought that she could do this cost efficiently by using space in her school before and after school, using trained school employees as her advisors (teachers and guidance counselors), and creating a leadership opportunity for high school girls by mentoring their younger peers. It is a fact that middle school girls look up to high school girls, and high school girls aren’t always the best role models.

Haley thought that she could create a peer-to-peer mentoring program that would inspire high school girls to become positive role models to their younger peers and this would also allow middle school girls to hear the right messages from the high school girls (in partnership with teachers, coaches, and guidance counselors) who they are so influenced by. She believed that if young girls were taken care of emotionally that they would excel academically.

After pitching her idea to the headmaster and guidance counselor at her school, Haley was set to begin the program, which she called “Girl Talk” in the Fall of 2002. Haley would meet for one hour, once a week with interested middle school girls, and they would tackle issues and problems the girls faced on a daily basis. Haley even provided the girls with an anonymous question box where they could leave questions and concerns that they wanted to discuss in future meetings. Haley’s community witnessed the program and it slowly spread across Georgia and then across the Southeast. Haley invested her college savings into Girl Talk, created the original Girl Talk Handbook, and would print and mail a copy of the Handbook to interested new Leaders and Advisors.

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

History of Girltalk (continued) It wasn’t long before she realized she was truly on to something and needed help. Haley asked Atlanta’s Brown Bag Marketing for help building a website. She envisioned a “Virtual Headquarters” and Brown Bag Marketing made this dream a reality at no cost to the organization.

In 2005, she set big goals. Haley wanted to see Girl Talk in all fifty states by 2010, graduate college in 4 years and inspire a minimum of 100 Chapters per year. Today Girl Talk is one of the fastest growing mentoring programs in the country and is reaching more than 35,000 girls each week.

As Girl Talk continues to grow, it is being featured nationally on CNN, The Today Show, NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams, TBS, Hallmark Channel, CosmoGIRL! Magazine, and American Eagle Outfitters stores. Haley is very proud to have such incredible success with a very limited budget. She wants to extend a thank you to the Albany and Atlanta businesses and families who believed in her as a teenager and encouraged her to make her dream a reality.

When asked if she is proud, she replies, “Are you kidding me? We are just scratching the surface. I’m humbled that 35,000 girls are being reached each week, but there are 12.6 million girls that we want to inspire. I’ve got to get back to work.” Haley graduated college with a B.S. in Communication in 2007, and works full time as Girl Talk’s Executive Director. Girl Talk and its resources are 100% free. The approved Chapter Leaders and Advisors log in and are taken to a section of the website designed exclusively to support them. Here they can download Leader Lessons, upload Chapter pictures, get useful tips from other Leaders, apply for Girl Talk Scholarships and Awards, and so much more. We truly feel that this is only the beginning, and with support from people like you we know we will reach our goals.

To learn more about the Founder, visit www.desiretoinspire.org and click About Girl Talk/Our Team/Founder, Haley Kilpatrick.

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A sister is not always a friend, but a friend is always a sister. –Unknown

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

Why Do I Need This Handbook?

The Girl Talk Handbook is designed to include step-by-step instructions on how to create and successfully run your Girl Talk Chapter. It includes ideas, important resources and tips to ensure your Chapter’s success.

Why Do I Need To Make My Chapter Official?

— Girl Talk Leaders must complete the official Chapter registration process (submitting online information and contracts, registering in Leader Login) in order to be activated to access Girl Talk’s materials online.

— Only registered users from official Chapters have access to the Leader Login section of our Web site. Here you can download weekly Leader Lessons & Worksheets, communicate with other Leaders around the country, read Girl Talk blog postings, receive updates on new Girl Talk materials, opportunities, and events, read testimonials and inspiration from other Chapters, upload photos, apply for scholarships and much more!

— We will work with your local media to promote your Chapter in the paper, magazines and other news outlets.

— Girl Talk can feature your Chapter’s good work on our main site to inspire other Chapters to be more like yours.

— Only Girl Talk Leaders who apply to “Start a Chapter” will be eligible for Girl Talk Scholarships.

How Do I Make My Chapter Official?

— To apply to start a Chapter, visit www.desiretoinspire.org and click “Start a Chapter”. Detailed instructions on the process and what you’ll need to complete it are in this section.

Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

leader expectations Girl Talk Leaders must be female high school students (grades 9-12). They are expected to be strong role models and community leaders. The following requirements have been set for Girl Talk Leaders.

1. A Leader must demonstrate a strong commitment to Girl Talk and should be proactive and creative in encouraging new girls to join the group.

2. She must abide by the rules and regulations of the Girl Talk Handbook, and must sign and make a personal commitment to honoring her Leadership Contract.

3. She must commit to leading one weekly meeting with middle school girls as well as spend at least one hour of preparation each week with the other Girl Talk Leader(s).

4. She is expected to complete at least 10 hours of community service each semester OUTSIDE of serving as a Girl Talk Leader. This can be done alone, with other Leaders, or with the Chapter as a whole.

5. A Leader is responsible for keeping her Chapter’s adult sponsor fully informed about events, her community service hours and any ideas or changes she’d like to make in her weekly meetings.

6. She must agree to mail or email Girl Talk a simple Monthly Report about her Girl Talk program no later than the 15th of the following month.

7. She must work hard to create sustainability for her Chapter before she graduates by training younger peers to be Girl Talk Leaders. (Some Chapters may need to use a Girl Talk Leader application to select successor Leaders.)

8. A Girl Talk Leader is expected to want to be there for her middle school girls. She should try to send encouraging notes, attend events that are important to them, and call or email to let them know she cares. Her role as a mentor and friend is very important to them, and a Girl Talk Leader should take that responsibility seriously.

9. A Girl Talk Leader should learn to delegate tasks to other Leaders and Advisors, and work hard to manage her Chapter in a way that is effective and inclusive.

10. She must strive to be a positive role model and a community leader at all times. She must hold herself up to the highest standards. She must understand that as a Girl Talk Leader, any bad decisions she makes will not only affect her, but her role as a mentor and the reputation of Girl Talk as well.

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

Getting Started and Approved

First Things First If you decide to bring Girl Talk to your school or community, you will first need to find an adult Advisor. Your Advisor can be a school counselor, teacher, mom or any trusted adult. Next, schedule a meeting to get Girl Talk approved at your school, church or community group (feel free to use the Girl Talk PowerPoint and other materials on our website for your presentation. Visit www.desiretoinspire.org and click Girl Talk Resources/Girl Talk Toolbox). Once you’ve secured both an Advisor and your school or other organization’s approval, you are ready to apply to become an official Girl Talk Chapter. Log on to www.desiretoinspire.org and click “Start a Chapter” to begin the application process.

What You Will Need To Apply When you begin the application process online, you will be prompted to provide the following information online: — Middle & High School (or other organization with which your Chapter will be affiliated) name, address, and phone — ­­Advisor & Leader Contact Info: You will be asked for basic contact information (name, address, and phone) and will also be required to have the following things:

• Email Address (both Leader and Advisor): Double check to make sure you enter emails correctly. This is the address your Chapter Confirmation Code will be sent to and this will also be your “username” to access the “Leader Login” section of the website

• Signed Leadership and Advisor Contracts: Available at www.desiretoinspire.org/Girl Talk Resources/ Girl Talk Toolbox

• Copies of Leader and Advisor Photo ID (driver’s license, school ID, etc.): This is for your protection. When working with minors we are required by law to ensure that you are who you say you are.

Once you have completed the online portion of the application process, you will be emailed a Chapter Confirmation Code which must be included in the contracts you submit. Once you receive this code, you may either mail or scan and email your contracts and IDs to Girl Talk at the addresses listed on the contract. When all information is received and approved, you will receive notification that you have been successfully activated in our system, and you will have access to the Leader Login portion of the website where you will find all the materials you need for your Chapter meetings.

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

Leadership AND ADVISOR CONTRACTS

Contract Commitment The purpose of the Leader & Advisor Contracts is to give you an overview of your commitments to Girl Talk and the girls you will be working with. Your Advisor is a key part of your Chapter’s success, so choose a person who believes in your Girl Talk Chapter as much as you do. Read the contract carefully and make a commitment to your Advisor, the girls you will be helping, and yourself as a representative of Girl Talk. Once you have both read over your contracts, you and your Advisor should sign them and make copies for each of your binders. Mail or scan and email the original contracts to Girl Talk (along with a copy of your photo IDs), keep a copy for yourself, and exchange a copy with your Advisor for your records.

*Tip: Use a binder to keep all of your important Girl Talk information. This will help you stay organized and will allow you to pass it down to future Leaders when you graduate.

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CHAPTER CONFIRMATION CODE: __________________________

Leadership Contract I will be on time for meetings, which will be held once a week for approximately one hour. I realize that my Chapter cannot meet without a Leader and an Advisor present. In order to properly plan meetings, I will let my Advisor know in advance if I cannot attend an upcoming meeting.

I agree to always set a good example for each middle school girl who attends Girl Talk. I realize the girls look up to me and they value my opinion. Therefore, in addition to “walking the walk and talking the talk” in person, I will make responsible choices when posting pictures, comments, and status updates online.

I will lend a helping hand, listen, and offer wholesome advice to those who seek it. Each semester, I commit to making my community a better place by volunteering a minimum of 10 hours of community service outside of Girl Talk. I realize that I can do my community service project by myself, with my Leaders, or with the involvement of my entire Chapter.

I commit to completing a Girl Talk Monthly Report in the Leader Login section of the website no later than the 15th of the following month. What is said in Girl Talk stays in Girl Talk. This is the golden rule. The only time this rule may be broken is if someone has been hurt or might get hurt if information is not passed on to my Chapter Advisor.

I have an Advisor who believes in me and the middle school girls we will be reaching through Girl Talk. We agree to work together and maintain a constant line of communication regarding our Chapter. Together we will take advantage of the resources available through Girl Talk’s Leader Login site. We will download Lessons & Worksheets, share suggestions, upload pictures, add new users, ask questions when needed, and use the tips and resources made available to us to help ensure our Chapter’s success.

Most importantly, I am excited to be a Girl Talk Leader and am doing this to positively impact young lives.

You and your Advisor(s) need to make a copy of your driver’s license/school ID to submit with your Contracts. Please scan and email all documents to maryashley@desiretoinspire.org or mail to: Girl Talk, 3490 Piedmont Rd NE Suite 1104, Atlanta, GA 30305.

Leader Name (Printed)____________________________ Leader Signature_____________________ Grade______Date_________ Advisor Name(Printed)___________________________________ Advisor Signature______________________________________ Chapter Name_______________________________________________________________ Date_____________________________ © 2012 Girl Talk, Inc., Girl Talk, the Girl Talk logo and Desire to Inspire are trademarks of Girl Talk, Inc.

CHAPTER CONFIRMATION CODE: __________________________

Advisor Contract I will be on time for meetings, which will be held once a week for approximately one hour. I realize that my Chapter cannot meet without a Leader and an Advisor present. In order to properly plan meetings, I will let my Leader(s) know in advance if I cannot attend an upcoming meeting so they can find an approved adult volunteer or cancel that week’s meeting.

I agree to always set a good example for each girl who attends Girl Talk. I realize my Leader(s) look up to me as an adult mentor and they value my opinion. I will hold my Leader(s) accountable to high moral standards, keep track of their 10 hours of community service each semester, and remind them to submit their Monthly Reports no later than the 15th of the following month. It is my job to encourage and support my Leader(s) to create a Girl Talk Chapter that will be successful and sustainable for years to come.

I realize that my Leader(s) have been told to come to me immediately with a situation they are not prepared to handle. In this rare circumstance, I promise to help those who seek my assistance to the best of my ability. I know that what is said in Girl Talk stays in Girl Talk. The only time this rule may be broken is if someone has been hurt or might get hurt if the information is not passed on to me.

If we need to meet for community service projects, create posters, plan future meetings, etc., I will do my best to arrange my schedule to be there for my Leader(s). I have these girls’ best interest at heart and want to support them. I can confirm that I have not been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor that would prevent me from being an appropriate Chapter Advisor.

I have Leader(s) who believe in Girl Talk and the middle school girls we will be reaching. We agree to work together and maintain a constant line of communication regarding our Chapter. Together we will take advantage of the resources available through Girl Talk’s Leader Login site. We will download Lessons & Worksheets, share suggestions, upload pictures, add new users, ask questions when needed and use the tips and resources made available to us to help ensure our Chapter’s success.

Most importantly, I am excited to be a Girl Talk Chapter Advisor and am committing to this role in the hopes of positively impacting young lives.

You and your Leaders(s) need to make a copy of your driver’s license/school ID to submit with your Contracts. Please scan and email all documents to maryashley@desiretoinspire.org or mail to: Girl Talk, 3490 Piedmont Rd NE Suite 1104, Atlanta, GA 30305.

Advisor Name (Printed)_____________________________________Advisor Signature___________________________________ Chapter Name_________________________________________________Date__________________________________________ Leader Name (Printed)______________________Leader Signature_____________________Grade________Date____________ © 2012 Girl Talk, Inc., Girl Talk, the Girl Talk logo and Desire to Inspire are trademarks of Girl Talk, Inc.

Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

Getting Started and Approved (continued)

Chapter Approval Checklist oo

I have completed my online application to “Start a Chapter”

oo

I have received an email with my Chapter Confirmation Code and I have written it in the top right corner of my Leadership and Advisor Contracts

oo

I have read, signed and mailed or emailed my Leader and Advisor Contracts to Girl Talk c/o Chapter Application, 3490 Piedmont Road NE, Suite 1104, Atlanta, GA 30305

oo

I have given a signed copy of my Leader Contract to my Advisor and I have a copy of my Advisor’s Contract

oo

My Advisor and I both have signed copies of our own Contracts to keep for our records

oo

I have received an email notifying me that my Chapter has been approved and my access to Leader Login has been activated

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Leader Login After you’ve completed your application to become our newest Girl Talk Chapter and mailed or emailed your required documents, you will receive an email that your Chapter has been approved. You and your Advisor can now access Girl Talk’s Leader Login section where you will find all of the necessary materials to run your Girl Talk meetings.

Your username is your email address and your password is the password you assigned yourself. Girl Talk cannot see your password, so if you forget your password, please click “Forgot Password” so you can reset it. Once you are logged in, you will find much more than just “Chapter Resources”. Here you can apply for scholarships, upload photos, ideas or questions, read our Girl Talk Blog for inspiration and exciting event news and even download Girl Talk graphics to create your own Chapter promotional materials! There is a library of documents for you to use in spreading the word, soliciting support, and organizing activities. This section is also where you will submit your Monthly Reports (no later than the 15th of the following month). Please do not forget to do this and know that it takes no more than five minutes.

IMPORTANT! Please know that as you add Leaders and Advisors, it is very important that you register them as users in Leader Login. You simply login and click “Add Leaders and Advisors” and follow the steps to allow your new Chapter leaders to obtain access all of the materials. It is critical that we have their contact information so that we can share all of Girl Talk’s news and opportunities with them, too.

We are always adding new materials and information, and we welcome your thoughts and suggestions!

Leader Login on Homepage

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

leader lessons & worksheets

Girl Talk has more than 100 Lesson/Worksheets for you to choose from.

The curriculum includes topics such as gossip, bullying, body image, community service, friendship, and talking to your parents. Each Lesson opens with a fun icebreaker, is then broken into five steps (Share, Show, Know, Grow and Go), and concludes with a weekly challenge pertaining to that week’s topic.

The Lessons are designed to be completed in an hour and help the Leader initiate conversation and share specific stories with the girls. Girl Talk Leaders and Advisors access these Lessons via Leader Login using their username and password. (Leader Login → View Leader Resources → All Lessons & Worksheets) Each Girl Talk Lesson has a “Middle School Girl Worksheet” that corresponds with each topic. The worksheets have room for your Girl Talk Girls to take notes, write questions they may have and/or write things that you shared with them to use later for inspiration. Encourage Girls to use a separate binder or folder to keep their worksheets in throughout the year.

Please take a close look, on the following page, at our complete list of all the Girl Talk Leader Lessons & Worksheets which are all available for download through Leader Login once your Chapter is approved.

A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.

- Walter Winchell

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

Lesson Topics Beautiful Body Image

Girlfriends

Dressing for Your Body Type Material Madness Perfection Stop Comparing Yourself What’s the Deal with Name Brands?

Being Nice Diversity How to Choose Good Friends The New Girl T.H.I.N.K. You Can Do It!

Being a Friend 10 Characteristics of a Friend How to be a Good Friend Intervention True Friends What Being a Friend Means

Being Tech Savvy Cyberbullying Internet Safety Posting Pictures Texting & Driving

Being True to You Being Real Being Yourself & No One Else Self Respect Stand Up for What is Right You Complete Yourself

Boys & Dating Boyfriend Material Dating vs. Not Dating Myth Busters Why Abstinence?

Downplay the Drama Cliques & How Not to Be One Fighting Friends Gossip How to Handle Being Left Out Power of the Tongue

Getting to Know You Being a Leader Choosing to be Kind Family Tree: Your Ancestry What’s Cool About Me? Who Am I? Who Do You Want to Be?

Girls Growing Up College Entrepreneurship Finding Your Talent What Do I Want to Be? You-nique!

Girl Talk Green 10 Ways to Go Green Eating Organic Minimizing Your Carbon Footprint Protecting Your Environment Recycling

Life Lessons Courage Embarrassing Moments Forgiveness Gratitude Hope

Life Skills Managing Your Money Priorities Setting Goals Social Secrets Response-Ability Time Management

Parents Avoid Avoidance Dealing with Divorce How to Talk to Your Parents Open up to Your Parents Quit Quitting

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Personal Creativity Anonymous Question Box Being Creative Get Organized!

Meeting New People Uplifting Posters

Personality Traits Becoming a Team Player Humility Looking at the Glass Half Full Solution Oriented Staying Motivated

Purpose Community Service Getting Involved It’s Not About Me Random Acts of Kindness Take and Give

Self Health Healthy Eating Hello Hygiene!

Learning to Let Go Mirror, Mirror on the Wall Stress and How to Handle It

Serious Topics Being Lonely Depression Plagiarism Sticky Situations Teen Pregnancy

Teen Partying Party Girl The Wrong Crowd Tough Decisions Underage Drinking What’s the Deal with Drugs?

Example of what Girl Talk Lessons and Worksheets look like.

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22

Talk on

ly.

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© 2009 Girl Talk tradema Inc. | rks are Girl Talk, recogn Desire ized as to Inspir proprie e, and tary to the Girl their re Talk log spectiv o are tra e owne demarks rs. Repr oductio of Girl Ta n with wr lk. itten co nsent by Girl

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24

Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

Tips for Chapter Success & Sustainability

Tips From The Top Calling all Girl Talk Leaders! Here are some key tips to make certain that everyone benefits from your Girl Talk Chapter, and that it is around to help your younger peers for years to come (even after your graduate). We want to provide you with all of the tools you need to ensure that you leave a lasting Girl Talk legacy.

Login to “Leader Login” at least once a week oo

See what is new (we are always adding new resources to help you)

oo

Post ideas and suggestions to the Leader & Advisor Forum

oo

Post Chapter pictures to inspire others

oo

Download graphics to create your own posters, fliers, stationary, Girl Talk Leader business cards, etc.

oo

Read Girl Talk’s Blog

oo

Raise funds so your Chapter can order from “Tees & More”, a Girl Talk Store (30% goes to help Girl Talk grow)

oo

Apply for scholarships

Add any new Leaders or Advisors to your Chapter (via Leader Login) so they can access everything & we know how to communicate important Girl Talk information with them oo

How? Login and click “Add New User” and follow the steps

Update your contact information (email, mailing address, phone number, etc.) if it changes oo

We email reminders, news about events and new scholarship information

oo

If your email address is not current, we have no way of getting in touch with you

Use your Anonymous Question Box oo

The girls are more likely to get involved if they are excited and interested in what you are talking about

oo

One of Girl Talk’s lessons explains how and why to use an Anonymous Question Box. You can create a box and leave it in a central location where girls can anonymously leave questions about things they’d like to discuss in meetings. You will have a better understanding of the issues your girls are facing and can incorporate that into your meetings; they will have a safe way to let you know what they need help with and how you can make Girl Talk even more impactful for them.

oo

Encourage young girls to share good news to celebrate others too!

Submit your Monthly Report oo

Be sure to include ideas for us, Leader Lessons you would like to see, what works for your Chapter, what doesn’t work, etc.

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

Tips for Chapter Success & Sustainability (continued) Complete your community service hour requirements (& we encourage you to invite your middle school girls to be a part of it too) Promote your Chapter! The more Girls you have attending the more girls you can inspire and positively impact oo

Go where the middle school girls are (post fliers in their halls, lunch, sports activities, carpool line, etc.)

oo

Advertise to their parents; getting encouragement at home and support for making time and arrangements to attend can be a big help

Always have an Advisor who is just as inspired as you are oo

You need their support!

oo

If your Advisor doesn’t seem “excited” about Girl Talk, we encourage you to talk with your administrators to find a replacement or simply add another Advisor who believes in you and what you are doing.

Collect your Girls’ key contact information — names, phone numbers, emails — so you can stay in touch oo

Send a weekly email reminder to the girls who attend (give them a sneak peek of next week’s meeting!)

oo

Encourage them to invite friends (maybe even offer a prize to the Girl who brings the most new attendees)

Check your email often oo

Girl Talk will email you important information (not often, but when we do it is important) about events, prizes, opportunities, scholarships, partnerships, etc.

oo

Be prompt in responding to emails you may get from your Girls

In the spring of each year, identify the 8th graders who regularly attend Girl Talk oo

Let them know that you think they would be a great Girl Talk Leader next year & start training & allowing them to shadow you (so next year, they are ready to step in)

Create a Girl Talk Blog for your Chapter, keep the Girls up to date oo

Blog about what you talked about in your last meeting, what is coming up, cool speakers you are trying to bring in, etc.

Plan Girl Talk events outside of your weekly meetings (slumber parties, bowling, movie trips, etc.); this is a great time to bond and really get to know your Girls

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Section Two

GetTING ORGANIZED RUNNING YOUR CHAPTER

Girl Talk Handbook | Section Two

Learn to Manage and Delegate

A good leader knows how to delegate!

Get together with your team of leaders and Advisors and establish roles for each person. Come up with jobs that need to be filled for you and your Chapter. Your Chapter will be more successful if you have clear responsibilities and engage interested leaders in a meaningful way. For Example:

Freshman Leader(s) in charge of recruitment & events •

Work to get to know middle school girls and encourage them to come, educate parents about Girl Talk at PTA/Open Houses, charge of promoting any Girl Talk related event.

Sophomore Leader(s) in charge of communications •

Email reminders, post flyers, keep track of girls’ email addresses/contact info, celebrate birthdays, etc.

Junior Leader(s) in charge of community service & fundraising •

Help plan the community service project for the semester if middle school girls want to participate and work with Chapter & Leaders to help raise funds for Girl Talk through Fuel for Inspiration.

Senior Leader(s) in charge of submit Monthly Reports and lead weekly lessons Advisor in charge of refreshments •

Seeks and schedules volunteers to sponsor refreshments.

If you don’t have any other Leaders yet, that’s okay! Think about getting some other girls you know involved in helping you over time, and try to involve girls from other grades so that they can step into your role when you graduate. Plenty of very successful Chapters have only one Leader at a time, and others have dozens! Do what works for you and the Girls in your group. Get others involved as you grow, and remember that being a part of Girl Talk is a gift to both the Girls and the Leaders — don’t be afraid to invite a friend to help; she’ll probably thank you for it later!

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Two

Create an Anonymous Question Box The Anonymous Question Box is a place for Girls to voice their concerns and feelings and raise questions that they want answered in future meetings.

The Girls can use the box for positive questions and announcements too. The Anonymous Question Box serves as a tool/reference for Girl Talk Leaders and gives you topics to address in your weekly meetings.

Take some time before your first meeting to create an anonymous question box, or plan to do it in the meeting. Be creative! Use markers, stickers, paper or paint to make the box fun. Feel free to post pictures of your box on the “Leader Forum” on the “Leader Login” section of our Web site. The girls will agree on a safe place to put the question box that will be available throughout the week, such as a teacher’s classroom, school library or counselor’s office.

The box should be checked on a weekly basis. The questions that are in the box will help serve as a starting point for meetings.

How to Make One: There are so many ways to create an Anonymous Question Box! Here is a picture of a Girl Talk Anonymous Question Box that a Girl Talk Leader from Georgia made. You can use a shoebox or tissue box (or any box about the size that you would like), wrap it in wrapping paper or construction paper and then decorate it to perfection! If you’d like, download and print the Girl Talk logo and fun graphics to use to decorate.

The following are real examples of questions that have been asked through the Anonymous Question Box. These questions can be something you use for your first few meetings until your girls feel ready and comfortable enough to use the box.

— Why do so-called friends consistently talk about you or your other friends?

— I just wanted to congratulate Amber because she made all A’s and made the cheerleading team!

— Why do some of my friends that hated each other before hang out all the time now?

— Why do friends make fun of you when they know you will get upset?

— What do you do if someone is being mean?

— Why do girls act like they are my friend one day and then are really mean and ignore me the next day?

Tip: Get Girl Talk graphics from the Leader Login section on the website

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Two

Get the Word Out Before your first meeting, take some time to post flyers in the middle school hallways. If the middle school is a part of the high school, you can put a flyer on each of the girls’ lockers. You can make your flyer from scratch or you can design one on a computer. Either way, make sure that you have ALL the information the girls will need to attend your first meeting (Where? When? What’s Girl Talk? Who can I call if I have a question?). You will find cool graphics and sample fliers on the Leader Login section of our website that you can use in creating your posters. You can also email or mail a letter to promote Girl Talk to the middle school girls and/or their parents (samples available in Leader Log-in). Ask a teacher or counselor for help with this if you need it. The more the girls and their parents understand what you’re doing, the more support and involvement you will get. So make a splash advertising your new Chapter, especially before the first meeting!

Prepare for the Meeting

Always prepare for your meetings in advance. You will be more relaxed and everyone will have more fun if you put a little time into preparing for your time with the Girls.

All Girl Talk Leaders should meet after school and read concerns expressed in the Anonymous Question Box (once you have introduced it to the girls and they are using it; for the first meeting, pick a topic of your choice.) Leaders will use this as a guide in choosing the week’s Lesson. Download the lesson materials you need from the Leader Login section of the website, and plan who will lead the meeting. Every Lesson should be opened with a personal story or experience from a Leader. Have a brief run-through of the Lesson; plan any activities and the materials you may need for it, and confirm that you have taken care of all the details necessary around your meeting space, snacks, etc.

Leaders should leave feeling extremely prepared for their upcoming Girl Talk meeting.

Wall Posters

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Two

Sample Meeting Schedule Here is a sample schedule from one of our Leaders showing you how her Girl Talk meetings flow. You do not need to follow this exactly, but it gives you an idea of an active Girl Talk Chapter. At this particular school, meetings are held from 3:15 – 4:15pm on Wednesday afternoons.

Sample Schedule 3:15

— Girls arrive & eat snacks brought in by a different volunteer each week and socialize for

3:30

— Begin Lesson for the week. Meetings open by playing a fun game known as an Icebreaker.

3:40

— The Leader usually opens with a topic (usually one addressed through the Anonymous

3:45

— Discuss the topic, always including the girls’ comments and asking them for their input.

3:55

— Divide up into groups to discuss what was learned that day. A Leader is assigned to every

10 –15 minutes.

This allows the girls to laugh and get excited about the day’s Lesson.

Question Box), and then she shares a personal story reflecting that issue.

Together everyone comes to a solution on how to handle a challenging situation. For example, if someone is spreading a rumor about you...how should you react? group to lead discussion. The older girls in the group are encouraged to also participate and begin taking on a leadership role.

4:10

— The Leaders give the girls a challenge for the week and the next week they are encouraged to tell their stories of how they carried out the challenge. Then girls are dismissed until next week!

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Two

Introduce Yourself

A Bit Of Me For My Girls To See! Take some time to fill this out so your Girls can get to know you better. Make more than enough copies to hand out at the first meeting. If you want to make the note a little more personal, feel free to edit it. Please be sure that you have the easiest way to contact you included.

Hey Girls, My name is ____________ and I am your Girl Talk Leader! We are going to have a lot of fun this year. If you need to talk to me outside of Girl Talk, do not hesitate to contact me. I have included both my phone number and e-mail address for you to have. I can’t wait to get to know you better!

Truly Inspired, Phone Number: __________________________ E-mail Address: ___________________________ Feel free to change this note to best suit you. This is just a starting point. You can make it longer and add as much information as you would like your Girls to know about you. If you feel inspired, please post your sample letters on the Leader Forum in the Leader Login section of the website to share your ideas with other Girl Talk Leaders.

A Few Of Your Favorite Things Use this form to learn about your girls or create your own form. This will help you get to know the Girls better. This form will help you remember details and ways you can cheer a girl up, acknowledge an accomplishment or remember a birthday. The ideas are endless!

Name: ________________________ Locker Number: __________________ Birthday: _______________________ E-mail Address: __________________ What’s Your Favorite: Color(s):_______________________ Celebrity(s):______________________ Snack(s):______________________ Drink(s):______________________ Hobbies: ______________________ Flower(s):______________________ Sport(s):______________________ Movie(s):______________________

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Two

Tips & Ideas for successful Chapter Meetings oo

Arrive early and be ready to great the girls with a smile. They are looking forward to seeing YOU!

oo

Remember it is up to you to make your Chapter a success. We always encourage you to spice things up by putting reminders on the girls’ lockers or in the halls, meeting outside, having a fun, completely interactive lesson, writing cards to people at nursing homes, making inspirational signs for the school walls or having a guest speaker. We encourage you to have fun with it and be creative!

oo

Make sure that your meetings allow plenty of time and encouragement for the Girls to speak up. Help to move the conversation along by sharing your own experiences, but make sure to LISTEN when they speak and create an environment where they feel safe to do so. One way to do this is to make sure the Girls understand one of the most important rules of Girl Talk: What is said at Girl Talk stays at Girl Talk.

oo

Have your leaders spread out and sit in different parts of the circle or group when you are talking about a Lesson or topic. It can be intimidating to the Girls for all the leaders to sit or stand in the front.

Birthday Calendar This is a very fun activity! This is a huge wall calendar made by Girl Talk Leaders. Supplies needed are paper, glitter, glue, tape and markers. Have the calendar up and ready to write on when the Girls came in for their first meeting, and have the Girls write their birthdays on the calendar. Every month, a different mom brings a cake to a meeting, and everyone sings “Happy Birthday” to all of the Middle School Girls that have a birthday that month. (This is just an idea that you might like to try! It really makes the Girls feel special.)

Wall Posters Wall posters are something fun that you can do with the girls right before a break, during exams, or at a time when things at school are getting hectic. All you need is some posterboard, markers, and a list of inspirational quotes. You can pull quotes from the internet, books, song lyrics, and even various Girl Talk material! You can give them quotes you have selected or let them pick quotes that they like. Help the girls with their posters, or make some yourself with other Leaders. When the posters are done, hang them in places where they will inspire others. Take lots of pictures and send them our way!

Be Creative Part of what makes Girl Talk a success is that Leaders try to make everything as fun as possible for the Girls that are involved. There are so many different ways that you, as a Leader, can make the Girls in your Chapter want to come to Girl Talk every week. You can do something as simple as making flyers or attending one of their sports activities to show you care. You are the key to the success of your Girl Talk Chapter. Remember that you should not feel limited to these activities; they are merely a starting point. If you find activities that work and you would like us to know about them, please inspire other Chapters by posting your ideas in Leader Login.

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Two

Get Involved in Your Community!

Each Leader is required to complete 10 hours of community service each semester. We encourage you to share this with your Girls and make community service a part of your Chapter activities.

You can complete your community service hours on an individual basis, Girl Talk Leaders can do a project together, or you can get your whole Chapter involved. Whatever you do, don’t forget to talk about your experience as a volunteer in your next Chapter meeting. Your Girls will be so inspired!

Be sure to turn in your hours to your Chapter Advisor; we’d also love for you to post your pictures on the Leader Login page at www.desiretoinspire.org. We would love to see all that you are doing to make a positive impact on your community!

Report Back to Us The Girl Talk Monthly Report is easy to fill out and gives Girl Talk a way to stay informed about how great your Chapter is doing!

— All reports are due by the 15th of the following month — www.desiretoinspire.org → Leader Login → Submit my Monthly Report — This is one of your Leader Requirements and if not submitted on time and regularly, you will not be eligible for Girl Talk Scholarships.

*Tip: Because Girl Talk is free, we need your help to keep it growing. Learn more about how you can help Girl Talk by getting your community service hours sponsored through our Girl Talk Gives Back campaign. Read more in Leader Login!

34

Girl Talk Handbook | Section Two

Never, never, never give up.

-Winston Churchill

35

Section Three

Get to Know Girl Talk

Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

Girl Talk Glossary of Terms Learn the Girl Talk lingo—so you are always in the know!

Girl Talk Leader­:

A Leader is any high school girl in grades 9-12 who has completed the Chapter

Application Process and whose local Girl Talk Chapter has been approved. A Girl Talk Leader hosts weekly Girl Talk meetings for one hour and uses her own creativity, as well as Girl Talk resources, to be an effective mentor to middle school girls. She must also complete 10 hours of community service outside of Girl Talk each semester to be eligible for Girl Talk Scholarships.

Girl Talk Advisor:

An adult female who is committed to supporting Girl Talk Leaders by being present at

all Girl Talk events, helping to coordinate when needed and encouraging her Leaders. A Girl Talk Adult Advisor also holds the Leaders accountable the Girl Talk Leader Contract and community service requirements.

Girl Talk Girl: Leadership Contract:

A middle school girl who attends Girl Talk each week.

A contract that is signed by all Girl Talk Leaders before their Chapter can be

approved. The contract is a document that shows their level of commitment to bettering the lives of middle school girls in their community, as well as holding each Leader accountable to high standards that are fit for a role model.

Each Leader is required to send a signed copy to Girl Talk along with a copy of a photo ID.

Advisor Contract:

A contract that is signed by all Girl Talk Adult Advisors before their Chapter can be

approved. The contract is a document that shows their level of commitment to Girl Talk and to supporting their Girl Talk Leader(s). In addition to supporting Girl Talk, the Advisor agrees that she has not been convicted of a felony and has the girls’ best interest at heart. Each Advisor is required to send a signed copy to Girl Talk along with a copy of a photo ID.

Leader Login:

This section of the Girl Talk website is for approved Chapters’ Girl Talk Leaders and Advisors

only. This site can be accessed by clicking “Leader Login” on the pink buttons on the right side of every page on our website.

Through our Leader Login section, Leaders and Advisors access and download their weekly Leader Lessons and Worksheets, apply for scholarships, post ideas and ask questions with other Girl Talk Chapters across the country.

Girls can also upload Chapter photos, submit their Monthly Reports and download Girl Talk graphics to design their own flyers, stationery, Girl Talk Leader business cards, t-shirts, etc. Girl Talk is able to operate cost efficiently because all of our materials and resources are downloadable online.

37

Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

Girl Talk Glossary of Terms (continued)

Leader Lessons:

Girl Talk has more than 100 Lessons for our Leaders to choose from. The Lessons

include topics such as Gossip, Community Service, Being Nice, Healthy Eating, etc. Each Lesson opens with a fun icebreaker and is then broken into five steps (Share, Show, Know, Grow and Go) and concludes with a weekly challenge pertaining to that week’s Lesson. The Lessons are designed to be completed in an hour and help the Leader initiate conversation and share specific stories with the girls. Girl Talk Leaders and Advisors access these Lessons via Leader Login using their username and password. (Leader Login → View Leader Resources → All Lessons & Worksheets)

Lesson Worksheets:

Each Girl Talk Lesson has a “Middle School Girl Worksheet” that corresponds with

each topic. The worksheets have room for your Girl Talk Girls to take notes, write questions they may have and/or write things that you shared with them to use later for inspiration. Encourage your Girls to use a separate binder or folder to keep their worksheets in. (Leader Login → View Leader Resources → All Lessons and Worksheets)

*Tip: Maybe offer a special surprise to the “Girl” who has the most worksheets at the end of the year.

This will help them stay organized, encourage regular attendance and also inspire them to reference their worksheets in times of need.

Girl Talk Complete Curriculum Book:

Girl Talk’s 250 page Curriculum Book comes complete

with all of our Leader Lessons and corresponding Worksheets. The book is high quality, printed in color, tabbed and bound. Through rapid growth in various school systems, we found that some school districts would rather purchase a tangible book instead of downloading the Lessons each week. Each book is $450 and is tax deductible. To purchase our complete Curriculum Book, please click “Have a Question? Contact Us” at the bottom right hand corner of our Web site and include how many books you need, your shipping address and method of payment (check or credit card). After payment is received, someone will contact you within 72 hours to confirm shipment. Please note that all of these resources are available online at no cost.

Girl Talk Handbook:

The Girl Talk handbook is a guide for Girl Talk Leaders on how to start a Chapter

in her community. It explains the level of commitment necessary, and how to create and run a successful Chapter.

We encourage the girls to print the Girl Talk Handbook from their computers. A high quality, color copy, bound version is available for purchase at $75 each. The purchase is tax deductible and can be purchased by clicking “Have a Question? Contact Us” at the bottom right hand corner of our Web site and include how many handbooks you need, your shipping address and method of payment (check or credit card). After payment is received, someone will contact you within 72 hours to confirm shipment. Please note that the Handbook is available online at no cost.

Start A Chapter:

If you are interested in starting a Girl Talk Chapter in your community you should

encourage a high school girl to become a Girl Talk Leader. She then would log on to our website and follow the instructions for starting a Girl Talk Chapter. You can help by downloading and printing the Girl Talk Handbook for her to gain a clear understanding of what being a part of Girl Talk is all about.

38

Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

Girl Talk Glossary of Terms (continued)

In the News:

This is the section where we get to fill you in on any recent television shows, newspaper articles,

or magazine articles that Girl Talk is featured in. Make sure to check it out. You can watch clips of our Today Show Appearance, CNN, CosmoGirl! Magazine, etc.

Girl Talk Toolbox:

This section allows the public to view the Girl Talk

Handbook, Informative PowerPoint Presentation, a sample Leader Lesson, and the Leader and Advisor Contract. Our goal is to provide you with as much information as you need to inspire you to “Start a Chapter” in your community.

Girl Talk Family:

These are Girl Talk Leaders, Girl Talk Girls and Girl Talk

Advisors.

Girl Talk Store:

Girl Talk Girls and Leaders everywhere wanted product

with Girl Talk’s logo and graphics on it. Your requests were heard and we are proud to have a store where you can purchase all things Girl Talk! The best part is that 30% of all sales go back to Girl Talk. So have fun shopping and while you do, know that you are making a difference in the lives of young girls all over the country.

Project Inside Out:

Girl Talk hosts a week long summer day camp for middle school girls (Girl Talk

Leaders serve as Counselors to complete community service hour requirements) in select cities. Project Inside Out is open to any middle school girl (doesn’t have to attend Girl Talk) and focuses on leadership, positive self-image and community service. The girls listen to key-note speakers and attend three “Impact Sessions” each day, which are led by high school girls who focus on topics related to the mission of the camp. Girl Talk can bring the camp to your community with a commitment of a minimum of 50 girls and donated space. To learn more about the camp, please click “Have a Question? Contact Us” and leave your contact information, noting that it pertains to “Project Inside Out”.

Someone will contact you within 72 hours.

39

40

Girl Talk Handbook | Section Three

Time Out for Testimonials

Girl Talk is Buzzing...

W.T. Henry, Headmaster, Deerfield-Windsor School “In my 45 years of educational leadership, I have not witnessed a more productive activity for middle school girls. I only wish that all of the girls at the age level across the country could have the privilege of a similar experience.”

Kara Friedman, MS, EdS, NCC, LPS, Girl Talk Advisor & Advisory Board Member “Girl Talk has proven itself to be a highly effective program with both our Middle and Upper School girls.

It provides the older girls with a positive and organized way to be leaders while providing the younger girls with tools to help them grow into healthy independent woman. There is no doubt in my mind that our students will look back and remember the advice they were given and experiences they had with their Girl Talk leaders and peers. It is a powerful, fun, and exciting addition to our school day!”

meredith head, Girl Talk Leader & Teen Advisory Board Member “I am a Girl Talk Leader and have been for the past two years. Middle school was so hard for me and when I heard about Girl Talk, I instantly knew I could give back and help middle school girls not go through what I did. What I didn’t know was that being a Girl Talk Leader would open so many doors for me as a “community leader.” I love being greeted with hugs by middle school girls I see around town, but most importantly I am proud of the difference this program has allowed me to make in my community. I am truly a better person because of it and look forward to this school year and becoming even better. Let me know if I can help any new Leaders. Thank you Girl Talk!”

collins, Girl Talk Girl “It’s easy for girls to judge you by what you wear and what you look like, but because of Girl Talk I have learned to see through their misconceptions.”

stevi perry, Miss Teen U.S.A. 2008 “Girl Talk is a support system for young girls. The program helps girls find strength and courage within themselves, which is so important to their self esteem during the teenage years. Even as Miss Teen USA, the times I have volunteered and worked with various Chapters, I have walked out feeling empowered!

Keep up the good work.”

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Three

Kelli Ritter, PH.D. & Girl Talk Advisory Board Member “Honestly I was so impressed with Haley as the founder of Girl Talk that I wanted to learn more about the organization and certainly see how I might help. There are several reasons I believe in Girl Talk and the mission of helping young girls. First of all, I was once a young girl in middle school and I remember how difficult those years were. Personally and professionally I recognize the challenges of the pre-teen and early teen years and Girl Talk makes a difference by allowing girls to explore key issues and build skills around a healthy respect for self and others, interpersonal relationships, effective communication, as well as some of the specific concerns the girls might have. One of the more impressive aspects of Girl Talk is the safe environment for the exploration and skill building. And even more importantly in an environment in which these young girls thrive – a group setting with high school girls mentoring the younger girls–this model is the most developmentally appropriate and effective model for interacting with this particular age group.”

betty siegel, Founder, Siegel Institute For Leadership, Kennesaw State University “Your work in establishing a mentoring program for middle school girls is an inspiration to other young women who want to make a difference in their school and community.”

chad michael murray, Actor “Girl Talk makes a difference in a young girl’s life everyday- I wish I would have had ‘Guy Talk’ when I was growing up.”

chandra czape Turner, Former Executive Editor Cosmogirl Magazine & Current Executive Editor for Parents Magazine “CosmoGIRL!” honored Haley Kilpatrick with the CosmoGIRL! of the Year Scholarship last year for her creative and thoughtful idea to start a mentoring program for middle school girls. Haley is doing on a grass-roots level what CosmoGIRL! does on a national level; she helps teen girls feel more comfortable in their own skin.”

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Three

robert johnston, Girl Talk Dad “I am amazed at the success of Girl Talk. Dads are unaware of what their daughters go through, and a lot of dads who hear the issues don’t take them seriously. The impact girls have on other girls really puts things into perspective.”

jackie, Girl Talk Girl, 7th Grade “Girl Talk has taught me that I am someone special.”

Mia, Girl Talk Girl, 8th Grade “Our sixth grade class was the worst the school had ever seen! Through Girl Talk we changed that.”

caleigh, Girl Talk Leader, 10th Grade “Girl Talk teaches you to respect everyone and T.H.I.N.K before you talk. I have also learned that you need to treat people with kindness and respect.”

Maureen, Parent Of A Girl Talk Leader “I think for girls to know that they are not alone in this and to help each other through it is such a wonderful thing.”

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Three

mary catherine kinney, Girl Talk Leader (4 Yrs) & 2006 National Leader Of The Year “Do you remember your middle school years? I certainly do. My experience was full of uncertainty about who I was and what I stood for. I strove to be a Leader, but when no one else agreed with me, my efforts fell to the wayside, and I followed the crowd. The crowd that I followed was the popular one. I can’t tell you how many times I tried to nudge into the tight knit circle formed at break to be a part of the daily gossip. Gossiping went against everything I wanted to be, but I felt to be included it was necessary.

Once I entered high school, I finally found out who I was. I am Mary Catherine, a strong, independent leader who doesn’t need the popular girl’s approval to succeed. I started mentoring through Girl Talk and found that I was not the only one who experienced this in middle school. From mentoring young girls through their middle school years, my life has been enriched. I have found and a sense of accomplishment in seeing the cruel cycle of middle school change. Girls are finally standing up for themselves and carving out their own path, one tat others will follow in the future. Not only do the girls benefit from Girl Talk but the Leaders do as well.

From being a Leader, I have developed essential skills that have spilled over into other aspects of my life. Selflessness and generosity become a way of life for Leaders and that positive spirit shapes the girls’ attitudes. Being a Leader requires dedication to the high expectations placed before you. Whether you realize it or not, the girls you mentor are religiously watching and following your footsteps because you represent a woman they wish to become.

Leading Girl Talk requires dedication that is immensely rewarding because you help transform lives.”

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Three

Kerry Grogin, 2009 Co-National Leader of the Year “At the end of my sophomore year in high-school, I started drifting away from good friends and good decisions. Instead of saying “No” to peer-pressure, I gave into it. By the end of my junior year, I was on the verge of being kicked out of my high school. During the summer, I did some serious soul-searching and found myself.

I decided to devote my senior year to a project that helped young girls avoid peer-pressure and bad-decision making. After a couple of weeks of researching different organizations, I found Girl Talk and saw that it was exactly what I was looking for! I contacted different administrators in my school and proposed my ideas. After several meetings during the summer, my Academic Dean and Non-Academic Administrator agreed to incorporate Girl Talk into Westminster. Over the next two months, I diligently prepared for the coming school year.

Although some students and teachers were unsure if my “change” was genuine, I have proved to them and to myself that people can change and make a difference. The Westminster Academy Chapter includes all 112 middle school girls and 35 high school Leaders. Over the course of the school year, I have planned and participated in several community service projects. In October, I helped plan The Walk for Life 2008, a fundraiser and walk-a-thon aimed at preventing abortions and promoting life. In November of 2008, I found a wonderful organization Called Broward Children’s Center, a home for mentally and physically challenged children and teenagers. Since November, our Girl Talk Leaders and I have volunteered on a weekly basis at the center, playing and working with the kids. In December, I organized a gift drive for the Children’s Center. We collected several boxes of toys and games. Some of the Girl Talk Girls and I went to the Children’s Center and handed out the gifts. We spent hours playing with the kids and their new toys!

In April, my Advisors, several Girl Talk Leaders and I planned a special slumber party for all the middle school girls. It was a fun-filled night with dancing and games.

Girl Talk has changed my life in so many ways. It has been a great outlet for me and I have every intention of working with Girl Talk in the years to come. I told myself when I started my Chapter, if I could help one girl avoid the mistakes I made when I was younger, everything I went through would be worth it. My dreams have come true this year and I am so thankful for the continued encouragement and opportunities Girl Talk has provided me with.”

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Three

Ariel Henley, 2009 Co-National Leader of the Year “I was inspired to start a Girl Talk Chapter after seeing all of the tragedy at my school. There were girls getting pregnant, girls in clinics for eating disorders, girls addicted to drugs or alcohol and even one girl who committed suicide, because of her personal body image.

Growing up with Crouzon Syndrome, a rare, life threatening disease where the bones in the head don’t grow, I was well aware of the struggles and cruelty kids at the middle and high school level displayed. I knew what these girls were going through, but it still upset me and I felt helpless. These were girls I knew, girls I had been friends with. I knew I had to be different, and not let them bring me down.

Through starting and leading a Girl Talk Chapter, I have grown as a person and truly become a better person. I am much wiser, independent and have developed leadership skills. Throughout this experience, I have learned that if you want something to change, YOU have to do it. If you wait around for things just to become different over night, you’re wasting time. Change starts with one person, and I have realized that person can be me.

I now know that anything is possible, and Girl Talk has shown me that. I always thought I wanted to be a lawyer, but after becoming a Girl Talk Leader, I have discovered that my passion is working with students in middle school. I am now planning to go to school to become an 8th grade middle school English and history teacher. I plan to start more Chapters of Girl Talk while I am away at school, and even when I begin working as a teacher. Girl Talk has changed my life, and I want to help so that it changes other girls’ lives as well.”

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Two

Frequently asked questions

What Is Girl Talk?

Girl Talk is a nationally recognized peer-to-peer mentoring program that pairs middle school girls with high school girls who serve as mentors. The concept of Girl Talk was developed in the fall of 2002 by Haley Kilpatrick, Girl Talk’s Founder & Executive Director. At the age of fifteen, she began brainstorming ideas for an organization that could help middle school girls with the daily triumphs and trials of being a young teen. She wanted to make a difference. Seeing her young sister go through the same troubles she went through in middle school motivated her to find a solution.

Girl Talk is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. Girl Talk’s Web site is www.desiretoinspire.org.

What Is Girl Talk’s Mission?

We exist to help young teenage girls build self-esteem, develop leadership skills, and recognize the value of community service.

What Programs Does Girl Talk Offer?

Girl Talk creates and supports Girl Talk Chapters, unique peer-to-peer mentoring programs that pair middle school girls with high school girls who serve as mentors. Girl Talk helps middle school girls build self-esteem through positive weekly meetings, learn the importance of community service, and, most importantly, benefit from a valuable relationship with a high school Girl Talk Leader. The organization provides an extensive curriculum of lessons and activities on topics relevant to middle school girls (bullying, body image, friendship, parents, etc.) that serve as a guide for discussion and interaction at the weekly meetings.

These materials are provided at no cost and are available online once a Chapter has been approved.

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section Two

Frequently Asked Questions (continued)

Why The Need For Girl Talk?

Research consistently demonstrates that mentoring directly and positively affects youth. A study conducted by the research organization Public/Private Ventures found the following benefits of mentoring: Girls are 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 27% less likely to begin using alcohol, 52% less likely to skip school, are more confident in their academic performance, and get along better with their families. Girl Talk believes that middle school girls will grow and learn from one another through our positive weekly lessons.

How Much Does Girl Talk Cost?

Girl Talk is absolutely FREE. There are no dues or membership fees. The only cost is your time.

Who Can Start A Girl Talk Chapter?

Girl Talk Chapters can be started by any passionate and motivated high school girl who wishes to develop a mentoring relationship with middle school girls.

What Makes Girl Talk Different From Other Organizations?

Unlike typical mentoring relationships where an adult serves as a mentor, Girl Talk’s unique program empowers high school girls to be mentors to younger middle school girls. Peer-to-peer mentoring is proven effective because students are better able to relate to one another.

How Do I Purchase A Girl Talk Curriculum Book?

The entire Girl Talk Curriculum book is available for purchase for $450. Please visit www.desiretoinspire.org/Girl Talk Resources/Girl Talk Store for more information on how to purchase the curriculum book. The book is available for download free under “Leader Resources” on the Leader Login section of the Web site.

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Girl Talk Handbook | Section One

Girl Talk Scholarships Girl Talk is fortunate to have thousands of dedicated high school Leaders around the country who are making a difference in the lives of countless middle school girls every day. Girl Talk’s success is because of Leaders like you. To recognize you, Girl Talk has created the National Girl Talk Leader of the Year Award, given in honor of our Founding Sponsor, the Bell Family Foundation. This award is given each spring to the Girl Talk Leader who best exemplifies the mission and values of Girl Talk.

Qualifications — Must be a 12th Grade (senior) Girl Talk Leader — Must be a Leader who has been involved in her community through service projects and run a successful Chapter that will continue to grow because of her leadership.

Leaders Will Need To Submit: Leaders Will Need To Submit: 1. Scholarship Application

Available on the Leader Login section of our Web site. Log in and click “Awards/

Scholarships” to apply.

2. One Letter of Recommendation

This can be from a fellow Leader, Girl Talk Advisor, teacher, counselor, social worker,

school administrator, community leader, a middle school girl or parent (whose life you

have impacted through Girl Talk).

3. Three Chapter Photos

This can be of you in action, doing community service with your other Leaders/Advi

sors or even a group picture of your Chapter. Inspire us...be creative!

All applications must be submitted by March 15th to be considered. Don’t miss out on getting your hard work as a Girl Talk Leader recognized!

Be sure to check out our site frequently because we are always working on additional scholarships to honor amazing Girl Talk Leaders.

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Notes & Inspiration

Notes & Inspiration

Š 2012 Girl Talk, Inc., Girl Talk, the Girl Talk logo and Desire to Inspire are trademarks of Girl Talk, Inc.