The Heritage Center overflowed with happy faces during an inaugural Fall Fest hosted by the Treasure Coast Girls Coalition. The nonprofit seeks to ‘Educate, Elevate and Empower’ young women who, like the sunflower in their logo, blossom with confidence through its myriad programs and the support of the community.
“Family and community engagement are very important to me,” said Shala Edwards, founder and executive director.
“I didn’t have a lot of people that showed up for me when I was a kid. So for our students to be able to see their families and the people that love them – these vendors, these people in the community, our village – show up for them at an event like this is important,” said Edwards.
“When you have a village of people that care for you and show up for you, you try harder, you do better,” she said, adding that ultimately, it is also an investment in future generations.
In the spirit of the season, many of the youngsters came dressed for Halloween and happily accepted the treats offered by the assorted vendors.
As the weather served up more of a trick than a treat, organizers pivoted and moved the assortment of old-fashioned games and activities inside, including a limbo contest that saw two little ones tying for first place when the bar couldn’t possibly go any lower.
“You know, children were isolated for a really long time during the pandemic and that’s why I wanted to have a social event. It’s a gathering where people can come together and just have a little bit of fun,” she added.
It was also, she said, a good way for people to learn more about what TC Girls Coalition offers.
“Sometimes we all feel isolated and that we’re alone, and we’re really not. You know, if you build your village, they’ll start showing up for you,” said Edwards.
The nonprofit caters to girls ages 9 to 18, for an afterschool program that runs Monday through Thursday afternoons during the academic year, September to May. In the summer, their STEM/STEAM Camp provides hands-on learning activities in science, technology, engineering, art and math.
“And we have a mobile food vending operation that teaches girls entrepreneurship, marketing, and life skills in order to get them onto a better path,” said Edwards, referencing their Culinary Arts program, adding that they take the food truck to various locations around the community.
Their Social Wellness program focuses on building friendships, self-image, social skills and confidence; Digital Technology Training ensures girls have access to computers, the Internet and any tutoring needed to not fall behind; and Experiential Learning Outings engage the girls through learning experiences, retreats and workshops.
She said many of their referrals come through the school district, religious organizations and service clubs.
“Vero Beach Rotary is a very avid supporter of ours and have been for most of the time that we’ve been in existence,” said Edwards.
She said some of their girls will be participating in the upcoming Dec. 6 Rotary Kids Triathlon taking place at Victor Hart Park and the Gifford Aquatic Center. In turn, TCGC will have a booth there and will provide volunteers.
“I just have a heart full of gratitude about this mission and about these families. It’s a beautiful, beautiful occasion,” said Edwards, adding that she was undeterred by the day’s off-and-on showers.“We stand tall in the sun and the rain. I’m a sunflower so I don’t mind the rain. It helps us grow.”
For more information, visit GirlsCoalition.org.
Photos by Amy Saville
