Greetings and Happy New Year! Out with the old and in with the new! As we all know, 2020 presented many hardships for us all, but by the grace of GOD, we made it through! And the Rites of Passage Mentoring Program weathered the storm. While adhering to the COVID guidelines, Derrick Brooks Charities continues to host monthly mentoring meetings at Brooks DeBartolo Collegiate High School. We were excited to welcome back parents, mentors, and mentees, old and new.

So far, so good! During the last few months, the young ladies and their mentors engaged in enlightening discussions and interactive activities that included leadership and how to position ones-self to become a future leader. Activities involved practicing communication skills, working together as a team, and utilizing those skills to build confidence. The girls were also challenged to solve problems by using critical thinking to produce solutions. Our Christmas celebration involved getting to know each other better. We created name tents representing who we are, family traditions, favorite things, hobbies, etc. The tents will be an ongoing project as the year continues.

The pandemic did not stop Derrick Brooks Charities from spreading a little holiday cheer! A few young ladies alongside Mr. Brooks welcomed families in a drive-through Turkey Giveaway. The families were very appreciative to receive sanitizing supplies, turkeys, and Publix gift cards. Thank you, Mr. Brooks for always finding a way to give back! As we continue to maneuver through these challenging times, remember this is temporary, and GOD is still in control! Stay safe and as always, thank you for your continued support!