Summer 2023 Volume 3
The Promise Continues with
The Whole Girl  Workshop Series 2023 / 2024
Field Day / Earth Sustainability Workshop – Summer
In a picturesque setting at Fort Greene Park, participants gathered on beautiful Kente Cloth brought by Ms. Alexis McCarthy, FP Advisory Council Member and Facilitator of this Workshop, to use instead of disposable plates & napkins. We enjoyed a healthy lunch while learning how to be sustainable.  Participants came ready to explore ways to impact our planet positively, so this workshop was more than just a Field Day; It was a hands-on experience in sustainable living, learning the importance of nurturing our environment through engaging discussions and interactive activities. This workshop served as a reminder that each of us has a role to play in safeguarding our environment. The Fort Greene Park Rangers left the participants with an understanding of some life skills to use during outdoor camping and how to read a compass, among many other things.  Everyone left with a commitment to embracing practices that will ensure a greener, more sustainable Earth for future generations!
Participants are photographed learning outdoor life skills and practicing sustainable habits with Ms. Alexis and The Fort Greene Park Rangers.
Team Spotlight –
Alexis McCarthy, FP Advisory Council Member
Alexis McCarthy, CEO of Springhead Social Impact and Advisory Council Member of Felicia’s Promise, has a diverse background spanning finance, arts, and nonprofits. As a former Managing Director at Christie’s and COO at Morgan Stanley, she’s honed her expertise globally. Ms. Alexis champions ESG, sustainability, and gender equity, aligning with her commitment to advancing girls and women. A Brown University graduate with a passion for multi-sport varsity athletics, Alexis translates her energy into tangible improvements for people and the planet. Â
Ms. Alexis, photographed above, traveled from PA to Brooklyn during the heatwave to host this amazing Field Day / Earth Sustainability Workshop. We are truly grateful for her volunteerism.
Women’s Health Workshop – Sex Education
Shanique Ivery, MS WHNP-BC, FP Women’s Health Program Director, gave an informative presentation on Sex Education as a continuation of our series of Women’s Health Workshops informing the mentees of the importance of understanding their bodies, among many other topics. Given her extensive knowledge, the girls were engaged and left feeling empowered and informed throughout this virtual workshop.
Ms. Shanique is in the photograph above (top left) with some of the Mentees and the FP Team at the end of the virtual workshop.
Confidence Building Workshop – Love Languages
Ms. Jacinta Mathis, FP Marketing Director, led Mentees through a curriculum of Love Lananges for The Whole Girl to empower each Mentee to navigate life confidently and with love. Ms. Jacinta demonstrated the importance of self-love and showing love to others through affirmations, acts of service, gifts, quality time, and physical interactions. The girls closed the session by communicating what they love about themselves and each other.
Ms. Jacinta is photographed above with Mentees and FP Team during and following the workshop.
Mentee Update – Mentee Laurel
And she’s off! We are excited to celebrate Mentee Laurel as she is off to college. We are so proud of her and wish her all the best as she starts her first semester at SUNY Geneseo, where she will pursue her passion for Geological Sciences.Â
Laurel is photographed above after being showered with gifts and lots of love with FP Supporter Mrs. Virginia Manuel and Dr. Tracy Durrah, FP Director of Development.
New Mentee  Introductions
We are tremendously excited to welcome the following mentees:
Nyah, 13 (Dallas)
Riley, 13 (Dallas)
Ulani, 13 (Dallas)
Justine, 18 (New York) Skylar, 13 (New York)
Tatiana, 18 (New York)
Victoria, 12 (United Kingdom)
New Mentees Ulani and Nyah surprised Felicia’s Promise Founder and Executive Director, Ms. Felicia Fonrose, with flowers and hugs upon arriving at the Dallas airport, with the help of their dedicated mother, Shay.Â
New Volunteer  Introductions
Tracey Howard & Santasia Renee Nelson
Tracey Howard, pictured left/above in the FP T-Shirt has joined Felicia’s Promise as a volunteer Administrative Assistant on the Development Team. Ms. Tracey is a native New Yorker and an adventurous traveler. In addition to being a self-published author, she is committed to supporting community organizations. Ms. Tracey’s goal is to make a better world for the youth, and she lives by the mantra that it’s not only what we do but who we are within that could make a magical difference.
Santasia Renee Nelson, LMSW pictured right is a dedicated School Social Worker and Licensed Master Social Worker. Ms. Santasia has chosen to make a lasting impact on the lives of black and brown students and their families. Currently working in a high school setting, she also steps into the role of FP Mentee Workshop Coordinator, on the Mentee Outreach Team leveraging her experience to further the mission of Felicia’s Promise. With a solid educational background and unwavering dedication to her field, Santasia Renee Nelson exemplifies the spirit of advocacy, education, and community engagement. Welcome to both of these amazing Women.
Philanthropic Promises – RXRÂ Furniture Donation
Thanks to the generous furniture donation to Felicia’s Promise from RXR, Felicia’s Promise was able to make a meaningful impact with the support of Rolanda Telesford, Senior Director of Community Development at YWCA of Brooklyn, the donated furniture found a new home with a well-deserved recipient. We believe in the ripple effects of positive actions, and this is just one shining example of the difference we can make when we come together.
A few photos from some of the generous furniture donations.
Supporting the PromiseÂ
By investing in Felicia’s Promise to continue building programs that support girls in these communities, we empower them by providing access to education and opportunities and investing in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape our world’s future. When girls are empowered, they can better contribute to their communities, economies, and societies, creating a more prosperous and just world for all. So, let us join together and invest in the future of our girls and, in turn, create a brighter future for everyone.
The Promise Continues with
The Whole Girl  Workshop Series
African Dance Workshop
The Whole Girl workshop series continues to be ignited with meaningful content. Mr. Folusho Elujoba (Folu), a media and technology entrepreneur, choreographer, and Felicia’s Promise marketing team member, led an African dance workshop. Through dance, mentees learned techniques and the historical significance of traditional African dance, given Mr. Folusho’s extensive dance research.
Mentees are photographed while learning the African dance routine. Ms. Lorraine Williams, head of mentee outreach, and Ms. Felicia Fonrose, founder and executive director, are with mentees and junior mentees, in-person and virtually, after the workshop. Last but not least, we highlight Mr. Folusho Elujoba (Folu) to especially thank him for sharing his choreography and expertise during the workshop.Â
Financial Literacy Workshop
The financial literacy workshop significantly impacts mentees by equipping them with essential knowledge and skills for managing their personal finances. Hosted by New York Life, Life Insurance, and Financial Guidance Agents Ms. Marcia Prioleau, Ms. Nylah Aodom, and Ms. Rane Palmer.Â
The interactive session and practical exercises empower these girls to understand concepts such as budgeting, saving, and investing. By instilling financial literacy at an early age, the workshop helps girls develop a strong foundation for financial independence, enabling them to make informed decisions, set achievable goals, and confidently navigate the complexities of the financial world.
Mentees, in-person and virtual, are photographed above while engaging in the financial literacy workshop hosted by New York Life, Life Insurance, and Financial Guidance Agents Ms. Marcia Prioleau, Ms. Nylah Aodom, and Ms. Rane Palmer.Â
The Inaugural Girl Chat
With thousands of miles between them, our U.S.A. Mentee Ambassador, Destiny, hosted the first Girl Chat with the administrative support of Ms. Felicia. This dynamic virtual gathering offers girls the opportunity to connect and share. During the session photographed below, Mentee Faith in Liberia showed her Promise Sisters the chickens & roosters in her yard, displaying a particular piece of her everyday life all the girls loved to see. Girl Chat continues to engage and unite Felicia’s Promise girls across the globe.
The above photographs capture mentees connecting from Brooklyn, Virginia, to Liberia West Africa.Â
Mentee Spotlight  Laurel
We are thrilled to acknowledge the remarkable accomplishments of Laurel Violetta Buxton, an exemplary mentee of Felicia’s Promise. Laurel has consistently demonstrated dedication, passion, and a drive for excellence throughout her high school career at Brooklyn Emerging Leaders Academy.
Her involvement in the Ukulele Club, Jazz Band, and Co-op Program showcases her diverse talents and willingness to explore different areas of interest. Furthermore, Laurel’s commitment to academic excellence is evident through her two Dean’s List awards.
Laurel’s involvement in community service is equally inspiring. Through her participation in Felicia’s Promise, Bethany’s Girl Scout Program, Troop 2920, Children’s Church, and the Youth Ministry, she has shown a deep sense of compassion and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
We are thrilled to congratulate Laurel on her acceptance to SUNY Geneseo, where she will pursue her passion for Geological Sciences starting in the Fall of 2023. With her strong academic background and unwavering commitment to personal growth, we have no doubt that Laurel will thrive in her chosen field of study and make meaningful contributions to the scientific community.
Laurel Violetta Buxton’s achievements and active involvement in our mentorship program serve as an inspiration to her peers and a testament to her exceptional character. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and look forward to seeing her continue to flourish as she embarks on this exciting new chapter in her life.
Laurel is shining in her senior photo. Then also photographed with Felicia’s Promise board co-chair Ms. Malini and Ms. Lorraine.Â
Team Spotlight  Ms. Selina
Board Member with Felicia’s Promise
We have a testimony and are excited to share Selina, an active Felicia’s Promise board member, has beat cancer!
To help make a difference in the lives of those fighting cancer, visit www.cancer.org to donate and learn more.Â
Photographed above, Ms. Selina prepared gift bags for mentees during the holiday drive and celebrated recovering and healing with Ms. Felicia.Â
A Promise Praise Report
Felicia’s Promise is honored to be awarded a grant from Colgate Palmolive. Thank you to our first volunteer, Ms. Taralyn, for your tremendous support in improving girls’ lives within our global community.
Supporting the PromiseÂ
By investing in Felicia’s Promise to continue building programs that support girls in these communities, we empower them by providing access to education and opportunities and investing in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape our world’s future. When girls are empowered, they can better contribute to their communities, economies, and societies, creating a more prosperous and just world for all. So, let us join together and invest in the future of our girls and, in turn, create a brighter future for everyone.
Felicia’s Promise Board and Leadership Team members at the 2022 Holiday Benefit with special guest the Honorable Letitia “Tish” James, Attorney General for the State of New York, photographed above.
Saturday, December 3, 2022, Felicia’s Promise hosted the 2nd Annual Holiday Benefit, a fundraiser in support of mentoring programs and workshops. An evening filled with promise, purpose, dinner, and live music. The joyous evening with over 100 guests, comprised of supporters and mentees, also included community leaders such as the Honorable Letitia “Tish” James, Attorney General for the State of New York. In addition, all of our International Mentees joined virtually, including our Mentees from Liberia, who also joined virtually from The Royal Grand Hotel under the leadership of Maisie Dunbar, Felicia’s Promise African Relations and Development Liaison.
Mentee Olivia recites a poem. The live band, The B Side Band, is photographed entertaining attendees. Event Honoree and Advisory Council Member, Alexis McCarthy greeting mentees. Event Honoree and Honorary Board Member Reverend Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey’s acceptance speech.
Thank you!
To the entire Felicia’s Promise Community, we express immense gratitude for the support each of you has shown to Felicia’s Promise. Without you, our efforts and impact around the world would not be possible. Thank you!Â
Mentee Led Community Engagement
Mentee, Troi led a coordinated effort with Felicia’s Promise to provide school supplies to children in underserved communities.
The Promise Continues with
The Whole Girl  Workshop Series
During the 2023 workshop series, Felicia’s Promise remains dedicated to empowering young girls. We are excited to announce our series of workshops, The Whole Girl, designed to build self-esteem and promote positive self-image. Our workshops cover various topics, including health and fitness, skincare, yoga, civic engagement, environmental sustainability, art, financial literacy, and more. We aim to give girls the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in all aspects of life while promoting community and empowerment. Join us in our mission to help girls realize their full potential and become strong community leaders.
Congresswoman Yvette Clarke joined Felicia’s Promise for a women’s health workshop. Shanique Ivery, MS WHNP-BC, the Women’s Health Program Director at Felicia’s Promise, is also shown leading mentees through the My Body My Business workshop. Each bi-monthly workshop in this year’s series is hybrid to include mentees outside of Brooklyn, New York. Mentees from Virginia, Jamaica, and Liberia are also pictured participating in the workshop virtually and collaborating with in-person attendees. To become a volunteer in support of our organization, apply here.
New Mentee Spotlight
We welcome this season’s new mentees, Faith, age 17, in Libera, Shakayla, and Serenity, who are both 13 from Brooklyn.Â
Current and new mentees are joined by Felicia’s Promise team and the Honorable Congresswoman Yvette Clarke.
Supporting the PromiseÂ
By investing in Felicia’s Promise to continue building programs that support girls in these communities, we empower them by providing access to education and opportunities and investing in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape our world’s future. When girls are empowered, they can better contribute to their communities, economies, and societies, creating a more prosperous and just world for all. So, let us join together and invest in the future of our girls and, in turn, create a brighter future for everyone.
 Introductions
