WISH-Women Instilling Self-Worth

“Since 2004, the Junior League of Fort Myers has served hundreds of at risk young females detained in the juvenile justice system through our WISH (Women Instilling Self-Worth and Hope) program. Originally managed under a state government program, WISH was created to give at risk girls knowledge, care, and support through monthly coordinated programming with our members. The Junior League of Fort Myers has continued this valuable mentorship program for over a decade, self-sustaining the program following loss of state funding.”

Our programming is geared towards enhancing the lives of these young women through various social and educational opportunities and activities. We greatly appreciate community support of time and talent to bring special programming to the young women.

Examples of these great programs from this fall are:

  • Game night: JLFM members engaged the girls in conversation and good times with board games
  • Sexual education: local female OB/GYN gave informative presentation. Girls responded with a stack of questions, most clinical in nature but some very poignant demonstrating the great need for both information and love
  • Spa night: local aestheticians gave hand massages and JLFM members painted nails to demonstrate care
  • Legal system: JLFM member and local defense attorney educated girls on the realities of the legal system
  • Garden stones: local artist led girls in creating and decorating stepping stones for the DJJ garden
  • Christmas cookie decorating: generous donations of cookies and decorations allowed girls to celebrate the holidays