Disney for Change Grant

BAM girls were one of among 125 grantees awarded a coveted Disney for Change grant. The girls organized three activities for residents of Newark YMCA. There are currently 260 individuals—the majority of whom are homeless mothers with children who reside at the Y. In addition, there are 9 unaccompanied minors who call the YMCA home because they have not other place to reside.

Drawing on their passions, the girls organized activities that allow them to share their passions as well as meet the needs of the adults and children.

• On April 18th, Marley, the avid reader organized a book fair and reading room;
• On April 25th, Amina, who loves fashion, organized pop-up fashion show where residents modeled donated clothing—all of which they were able to keep; and
• On April 26th, Briana, the animal lover, organized a petting zoo for the unaccompanied minors who live at the YMCA.

They events were highly successful. About 126 people participated in all the activities.

• Roughly 60 people attended the book fair, the majority of whom were young adult readers between 10-16 years old. The room capacity is 100 and as shown in the pictures the room was relatively full.
• Roughly 60 people attended the pop-up fashion show, the majority of whom were mothers and children.
• Six of the 9 unaccompanied minors attended the Petting Zoo at Shake A Paw.