Author Archives: Jaime Taylor

For over 11 years I have been walking alongside youth, mentoring and trying to be with them through the highs and lows of Oakland living. Throughout those 11 years there have been successes and there have been failures. One of the bright spots is something that wasn’t completely planned. Over a year ago the small non-profit I run with the help of neighbors and Mission Year alum, decided we would start a little girls group. A couple other women from …

• 

I enter the preschool room and toddlers wave at me, smile, sometimes even sing a song telling me they are happy I am here. They often tell me hello several times, making sure I see them. I spent my evening with Karina, my friend, former Girls Group member, and my current co-leader for Gurlz Nite. We went to workout together and the spent the evening discussing our plans for the teens we mentor. I left feeling hopeful and refreshed. This …

•