Val Sadler, Director of Women’s Services, was honoured to be part of the Hamilton Spectator’s “Listen, Baby Girl” video in celebration of the 100th International Women’s Day.
As posted here: http://www.thespec.com/news/local/article/497539--listen-baby-girl
We asked for advice and you offered. And offered. And offered.
Nearly 200 women submitted their advice for baby girl born today in Hamilton.
Many were inspirational, some humourous and a few dark. Responses came by e-mail, phone and Twitter with women participating from as far away as British Columbia and Texas.
Overall, the women who contacted us wanted the new generation to embrace their uniqueness, forge their own path and ignore the naysayers that try to pull them down.
Lauren O’Neil had a hard time choosing one piece of advice. “I wish I could offer a whole book of advice to a baby girl born today in Hamilton,” she wrote in an e-mail. “It's certainly not easy to be a girl in any age, let alone this one.”
If given the chance, O’Neil said she’d tell a baby girl that “smart will take you further than hot” and “standing out is a good thing.”
Mohawk College student president Kathleen Cullen also pushed the eight-word limit, noting whether it’s a baseball cap, dirt bike helmet or updo, “every princess’ tiara looks a little different, but each fits her personality just right.”
PHOTO ZONE: Women give their advice
Dozens of women urged the new generation not to define themselves by their looks.
“Only the size of your heart matters,” said Jacqui Tondrea. “I’m a ‘big girl’and I’ve learned that the hard way!”
Sarah Ellis’ advice to “be confident and proud of who you are” comes from her desire to see her 19-month-old daughter be comfortable enough in her own skin to speak her mind and not worry about others judging her.
“I want my daughter to take pride in herself, and not feel she has to apologize for things she does well,” writes Ellis.
Who do you turn to when someone you love is struggling with addictions and you feel like your life is falling apart?
Kathryn came to the mission terrified and angry, feeling alone and without hope. She could think of nothing to do that would help her son. Jason was struggling with addiction and mental health issues, and Kathryn did not know where to turn.
Mission Servies Opportunity Centres has received positive feedback from the community regarding our decision to commission a report from the Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton on Homeless Women in Hamilton
Not to Be Forgotten: Homeless Women in Hamilton is accessible HERE.
I encourage you to read the report and share it with your friends. Any comments or observations about the report are appreciated.
Where did you volunteer last?
- Family Event
- Church Function
- Christmas Party
- Community Meal
