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Who You Are and Every Part of You

Creating Healthy Empowering Relationships in Sisterhood, Inc (C.h.e.r.i.sh.) program empowers young women to discover their strength and unique value, fostering confidence and unity. Help these girls become bold, independent and empowered with Cherish’s unwavering support.

C.h.e.r.i.sh. is a non-profit organization that provides one on one mentoring to young women between the ages 8-14. We empower and build their character by focusing on developing life skills, with an emphasis on financial literacy, etiquette, self-love, health, and wellness. In addition to focusing on empowering each individual, we simultaneously cultivate an environment where we develop and uplift the importance of sisterhood among young women.

C.h.e.r.i.sh. will prepare every girl to become strong, independent, confident, and responsible young women who exemplify a high sense of self-efficacy and self–worth. They will understand the importance of self-love and sisterhood.

  • One to one mentoring
  • Cherish Us monthly group meet ups, both virtual and in-person
  • Participation in community service initiatives
  • Annual college tours

A C.h.e.r.i.sh. mentor is a woman, who is aware of who she is and understand that she is constantly evolving everyday. That who she is today may be different from tomorrow and is willing to share a piece of her wisdom, heart, and learning experiences around the many circumstances she encounters being a woman around topics including but not limited to etiquette, fashion, health, and wellness. She has a passion for working with young woman and making an impact on their lives. Is that you?

Are you a young woman who want to be supported navigating different circumstances and situation within life while understanding who you are and your identity? Do you value sisterhood and want to be a part of a community that cultivates sisterhood while uplifting and supporting the development of your individual identity? Be a C.h.e.r.i.sh. mentee today.

  • Can commit to meeting at least once a month either in person or virtually
  • Currently living within the Tri-state area (NYC, CT, NJ)
  • Willing to connect with and interact with other young woman your age
  • Want to Grow in knowledge and build self-efficacy
  • Young woman between the ages 8 to 14 years old

The Leila Simone Washington Scholarship Fund is a scholarship for students planning to pursue a career in physical therapy or in a related healthcare field. This year, one individual will receive a $3000 scholarship to go towards their education.

Here are the requirements:

  • A Senior in HS

  • At least a 3.5 GPA

  • Two letters of recommendation from:

    • School Admin

    • Teacher

    • Coach

    • Mentor

  • Planning to major in one of the following:

    • Exercise Science

    • Health Science

    • Kinesiology

    • Sports Health

    • Clinical Exercise Physiology

    • Biology

    • Physical Therapy* 

This scholarship fund is in honor of an exceptional student athlete, Leila Simone Washington who was a gem and inspiration to all. She aspired to be a prominent physical therapist and we hope you make strides to become successful in the healthcare field. Click below to apply now.

Your generous donations make our mission possible. By contributing to C.h.e.r.i.sh., you directly impact the lives of young women, empowering them to thrive and make a difference in their communities. Your support enables us to offer essential programs, workshops, and resources to guide these girls on their transformative journeys.

Join us in making a difference! Your donation will help us continue our vital work in empowering young women to be bold, independent, and self-assured.

Jalesa Washington

President

Jalesa Washington is an educator and mentor who focuses on helping women of all ages become their best selves by increasing the love they have for oneself, which leads to an increase of their self-worth. She has been in the field of education for over nine years. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y. and being a product of the NYC public school system, she believes in the importance of seeing individuals as who they are and uses emotional intelligence to spark greatness in youth. She has been featured on Humans of New York for her interactions with her students and has been a panelist at various events, highlighting the benefits of social emotional learning and culturally responsive education strategies. She holds a BS in Human Ecology from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and a MAT from the Relay Graduate School of Education. When Jalesa is not fulfilling her God-given purpose within her work, she enjoys dancing, journaling, spending time traveling alone, and traveling with friends and family.

Kerisha Phillip

Secretary

Kerisha is a dedicated elementary educator and special services leader with ten years of teaching and leadership experience. Born and raised in the Bronx, NY, she is passionate about advocating for students with diverse learning needs and ensuring that all children, regardless of background or ability, receive the support they deserve. Committed to empowering others, she inspires students and educators alike to reach their full potential. She is also the founder of Kay Captures Photography LLC, where she expresses her creativity through capturing timeless moments. Kerisha holds a B.A. in Elementary/Special Education and an M.Ed. in Special Education from the University of Hartford, an M.A. in Teaching from Relay Graduate School of Education, and an M.A. in Curriculum and Teaching from Teachers College, Columbia University.

Rael Jones

Treasurer

Rael Jones is the Chief Operating Officer at Merrick Academy–Queens Public Charter School, bringing over 18 years of experience in social work and education. He began his career as a case manager, supporting NYC residents through employment and social services before making a strategic pivot into education to address the root causes of systemic challenges he witnessed in adulthood. Since joining Merrick, Rael has led several high-impact initiatives, including the successful completion of a 63,000 sq/ft capital project that delivered a state-of-the-art facility for scholars and staff in Southeast Queens. A native of Hollis, Queens, and a graduate of Marist College, Rael is proud to serve the community he calls home by building systems that help educators teach and students thrive.

Contact us for more information on empowering young girls in their personal, academic and professional development. Whether you want to volunteer, partner with us, or seek guidance, our friendly team is ready to help. We aim to create a community that fosters growth, self-confidence, and success for girls from diverse backgrounds. We value your input and feedback, so reach out to us through phone, email, or social media.

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