Profiles in BRAVERY: Tante Robinson...Putting An End to Bullying

"ProfilesInBRAVERY" is a segment that highlights everyday people using the communication skills they have to do amazing things. The world may not know their name but their bravery and skill has changed someone's world. If you know someone who should be featured, contact me. 

Tante Robinson,
Founder Girls Of Excellence Mentoring Program

Name: Tante Robinson

Title or position: Founder, Girls of Excellence Mentoring Program

Business/Agency: Girls of Excellence Mentoring Program

Online presence:
https://www.facebook.com/girlsofexcellence  



What is a misconception people have about bullying?
A lot of people think it’s just a game and that it’s not serious. People just shrug it off. But it is serious. Children kill themselves, they get depressed. They cut themselves. Words do hurt.

What is Girls of Excellence?

 Girls of Excellence is a mentoring program that focuses on self-esteem and bullying awareness and prevention. We are nationwide and we go into schools, churches, and other events to provide training to teach people: how to be more aware of bullying; how to deal with the situations when they arise; and how to help the youth with self-esteem issues.
   
Our Mission is to produce girls of character that become role models in their circles of influence. We want to prevent bullying before it happens and instill in students respect; for authority, others, and themselves. It's paramount to our communities that students be encouraged to pursue their educational goals to make them become a reality. It's about helping one student at a time mature into healthy, respectful, productive citizens.

Why did you start this nonprofit?

I started the non-profit for many reasons. I was a bully when I was growing up. I was mean to other kids and as I got older, I wanted to give back to my community.  Also, there was this little girl that I knew that was being bulled and she didn’t know how to deal with it. I realized there was a true need for help with bullying in the community. I wanted to help children express themselves and have an outlet to talk about their issues.

What part does bullying prevention/awareness play in organization?

We try to put that first and prevent it before it happens giving teachers, students, and parents tools to help prevent bullying. We provide training and hands on projects for kids.

What would you say to teens who are bullied?

• Don't be afraid to talk about it or tell someone.
• Don't be ashamed.
• Don't take matters into your own hands.
• Don't be afraid to stand up for others.

What tips would you give parents whose child is bullied?

• Know what is going on with your children.
• Ask your children about what goes on in their lives.
• Create trust so they'll honestly tell you.
• Talk to their teachers and principals about their interactions in school.
• Be aware of their social media accounts and texting habits.

Any final thoughts?

To my parents, know what your kids are doing, ask questions, and know the warning signs. Don’t take it lightly when your kids say they are bullied. Handle it. It’s real and if we don’t do something about it now, we will have a worse epidemic.

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