Girl Up of Manatee Middle School Holiday News

Girl Up is a club consisting of 36 strong and motivated seventh and eighth grade girls. The club’s mission is to empower girls around the world and in the process learn leadership skills and gain confidence in themselves. They research and plan educational presentations on global issues that affect women, raise money to help girls in need, and develop new skills, friendships and teamwork.  

On Saturday, December 11, 2021, the club members designed and decorated gingerbread houses sponsored by St. Mark's Episcopal Church. Working together in groups, the members enjoyed strengthening friendships as they used teamwork to build the gingerbread houses and villages. 

At the end of the festivities, the girls were surprised by individual Christmas gifts that were donated by Christ Community Church of Naples. The girls are beyond grateful for the two churches that contributed to the success of the spectacular holiday event.

Johana Izquierdo and Catyana Saintil are eighth grade students at Manatee Middle School and Girl Up members.