The girls noticed.

For weeks they watched the boys head into their mentorship groups at Gates High School, two weekly gatherings led by staff member Eldie Gentry. Eventually, they started asking the question: When do we get a group?

This February, they got their answer. Natasha Hall, former YFC staff and current board member, launched two new group mentorship sessions just for girls. Now, thirteen young women gather weekly to build connection, navigate life together, and receive encouragement and support.

At the very first session, Natasha didn’t just set the rules, she invited the girls to help shape the space. Together, they shared what they needed from each other and what kind of community they hoped to create. Respect. Openness. Ownership.

Then, something unexpected happened. As the session wrapped up, one of the girls asked, “Can we pray?” Heads nodded. Natasha said yes.

We honor the boundaries of a public school setting, and we don’t bring in overtly religious programming. But when students initiate a moment like that, we recognize it as something sacred. They are bringing their whole selves into the room, including their faith.

Moments like these remind us that kids are deeply hungry for connection—not just with mentors, but with something bigger.

Thank you for being part of creating spaces where young people feel safe, supported, and seen.

To learn more about mentorship or how you can help bring more safe spaces to young people across Pierce County, click below.