Letter from the President Happy February! As we step into this new month, as always, I love connecting with you through our Magnolia Monthly newsletter and sharing the many updates from the S.H.A.U.N. Foundation for Girls, along with so many inspirational stories! This month holds significant importance as we celebrate 'Black History Month,' a time to shine a special spotlight on the achievements and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. This month is a reminder to always embrace the richness of diversity and celebrate the progress made by individuals who have paved the way for future generations. In the spirit of that recognition, we extend our applause to the incredible diverse group of women who triumphed at the Golden Globe and Emmy Awards. Their accomplishments serve as a beacon for the girls and young women we empower, showcasing the limitless possibilities that await them. With award season in full swing, our hope is that there will be many more women breaking barriers.  On a personal note, as a proud graduate of Spelman College, I am elated to share the news of a remarkable $100 million donation to the institution. This monumental contribution will undoubtedly fuel the dreams and aspirations of countless young women seeking a quality education to set them on a path to success. In this edition, we also shine a spotlight on our steadfast partner, 'Alternatives for Girls,' and delve into the transformative impact they have on the lives of young women benefiting from their services. Their dedication aligns seamlessly with our mission, and together, we continue to make a lasting difference. This month, we commemorate 'American Heart Month' as well. We urge all women to prioritize their heart health. Awareness and proactive care are key to leading long, fulfilling lives. Finally, if you find our content inspiring and impactful, we invite you to consider becoming a sponsor of our newsletter. Your support plays a crucial role in furthering our mission. Simply reach out to us at info@shaunfoundationforgirls.org to explore sponsorship opportunities.  Thank you for your unwavering support. Happy reading! With love,

Partner Spotlight: Alternatives for Girls Breaking Barriers: Ballerinas of Color Call for Pointe Shoes in Every Shade U.S. Mint Releases New Coins Honoring Harriet Tubman Spelman College Receives Historic $100 million Donation Health & Wellness: American Heart Month Featured Favorites: Spotlighting Women of Color who Shined at the Golden Globe & Emmy Awards Email us to learn more!

"Don't sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them." - Madam C. J. Walker

Partner Spotlight: Learn More

Back in 2016, we gave our first very grant to Alternatives for Girls, an incredible nonprofit that helps girls and young women experiencing homelessness and other risks in Detroit, Michigan. We understand that to truly strengthen and grow the impact of our partner organizations, they need reliable, ongoing support. During our longstanding partnership with AFG, we have continued to support their important work in many ways - from outreach and in-kind donations to grants for general operating support. "I have been a peer mentor for about five years. I love being in the community I grew up in and talking to the young people, letting them know about AFG and how they can help. After all, I too was one of those girls years ago.    In 9th grade, I began to make choices out of hurt. I was doing well in school, played travel racquet ball and was on the step team. However, my dad passed away around this time, and I began to make bad choices and was suspended from school. Not long after that I went with a friend to a job fair and met a peer educator from AFG. I learned about their programs and since that day, I have been with AFG. AFG helped me be a better person and put me on the right track in life. I have more self-esteem and confidence and because of this, I was able to graduate high school, help my mom with my younger siblings and become an AFG peer mentor. I am also a store manager with the career goal of becoming a truck driver, just like my dad.    An AFG peer mentor is someone who can change a life. We made choices, good and bad, and can share our experiences with young girls so they too can know their potential. I will be a peer mentor as long as I am needed."   Tai'Sha-Monae Nored, AFG Peer Mentor

Breaking Barriers: This Month's Must-Reads

Ballerinas of Color Call for Pointe Shoes in Every Shade Although ballet has diversified and changed over the years, many ballerinas of color still struggle to find pointe shoes to match their complexion. Well-known dancers, like Misty Copeland, are bringing renewed attention to the need for more options. Read more www.cnn.com

U.S. Mint Releases New Coins Honoring Harriet Tubman In honor of the bicentennial of her birth, the U.S. Mint has released three coins as part of the Harriet Tubman Commemorative Coin Program. The designs featured on the coins honor Tubman's life and her work as an abolitionist and social activist. Read more www.npr.org

Spelman College Receives Historic $100 million Donation One of the country's leading educational institutions for Black women in STEM just became the recipient of the largest single donation ever given to a historically Black college or university (HBCU) in the U.S. Read more www.cbsnews.com

Health & Wellness: American Heart Month More than 1 in 3 women is living with some form of cardiovascular disease, but about 80% of cardiac and stroke events may be prevented with education and action. Learn more through the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women Initiative.

Featured Favorites: Spotlighting Women of Color who Shined at the Golden Globe & Emmy Awards

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