Girls Inc. of West Contra Costa County Board President Sharon Kidd at Girls Inc. in Richmond with Girls Inc. Girls Keri-Anne Woods, Shatanya Amerson, Celine Robinson, Shannon Culpepper, Shawn Culpepper. Leah Tannehill (below).

Young women who are participating in Girls Inc. West Contra Costa County were honored at a spring
celebration, “Inspiring All Girls to Be Strong, Smart and Bold.” About 200 guests came to the April 28 event to see 36 young women acknowledged for their
participation in the organization’s after school programs.
Mayor Gayle McLaughlin, Supervisor John Gioia and Assemblywoman Nancy Skinner also attended the
event. “I am so proud to see these young ladies growing and developing into tomorrow’s leaders,” said
McLaughlin. “We recognize their hard work and dedication and congratulate them,” said Skinner who provided
certificates of recognition to the girls and invited them to tour the state capitol.
“I am so grateful for the community’s support of our well deserving girls,” said Sharon Kidd, new Girls
Inc. board president. When you educate a woman, you educate an entire village,” said board member Gloria Scoggins, speaking of the importance of the organization’s College Bound Girls program.
Keynote speaker Josetta Jones, a patent attorney for Chevron, urged the girls to be mindful of
those with whom they associate, continue to acquire knowledge, be open to change and be true to themselves. “But most importantly, have faith in something higher than yourself,” she said.
Girls Inc. program assistants Tiffany Wilson and Anicia Bailey shared their enthusiasm for the program. “These girls are really dedicated, and I am proud to see them showcased today,” said Bailey. Attendees enjoyed soul food by Cindy Howell Catering, the music of the Harry Gold Blues Band and performances by drummer Pope Flynn and the lively dancing of the Akwaaba Dancers. For information visit www.girlsinc-wcc.org or email office@girlsinc-wcc.org