Eight-year-old Jasmine used to shy away from raising her hand in class. She’d mumble answers under her breath and avoid eye contact with her peers. But after participating in a self-esteem program led by Enrichly, something changed. Jasmine began to light up with confidence, volunteering to read aloud and even mentoring younger students. Her mom couldn’t believe the transformation.
Jasmine’s story is just one example of what happens when kids discover their worth and potential. That’s why Catalyst by Wellstar has invested in and partnered with Wellstar Center for Health Equity and Enrichly to bring this powerful program to kids in our community. Together, they’re making sure more children, just like Jasmine, have the tools they need to thrive.
A Community Collaboration
This partnership didn’t happen by chance. The Wellstar Center for Health Equity worked closely with Catalyst to identify a community partner that could make a real difference. Atlanta Berean Seventh-Day Adventist Church, known for its vibrant youth programs, was the perfect fit. Now, over the next six months, 25 kids will meet on select Sundays to participate in a pilot program that’s all about building their self-esteem.
What Does the Program Look Like?
Here’s how it works: Each child has received a tablet to access Enrichly’s fun, interactive platform. The program uses games, conversations, and activities to teach kids about confidence, self-acceptance, and resilience. It’s all guided by Erica Minta, a master’s-level social work student from Clark Atlanta University, and Tedrick Baines, Lead Coordinator for Enrichly.
The program lasts 12 sessions, and along the way, kids will take self-esteem assessments to track their growth. Right now, only 38.1% of participants report high self-esteem, while 52.38% are at an average level, and 9.52% feel low about themselves. The goal? By the end of this program, 95% of these kids we hope will feel confident and capable.
Erica’s involvement is just as inspiring as the program itself. “Just like physicians and nurses, we face a shortage of social workers,” she says. “Social workers play an equally crucial role in how we serve our patients and communities.” Erica’s work in this program is a testament to Wellstar’s commitment to growing a diverse workforce and investing in the future of care.
Why Does Self-Esteem Matter?
Think about your own child for a moment. When kids feel good about themselves, everything changes. They do better in school, make healthier choices, and are less likely to engage in risky behaviors. Programs like Enrichly are designed to build that kind of confidence, one game and conversation at a time.
Rae-Anne Pinckney, Manager of Community Benefit for the Wellstar Center for Health Equity, explains it perfectly: “Programs like Enrichly play a crucial role in promoting social equity by addressing systemic barriers that impact children’s well-being. By investing in self-esteem development, we’re not just helping individual children; we’re fostering stronger, healthier communities.”
She adds, “Self-esteem in children is crucial for their overall development and wellbeing. It influences their happiness, self-worth, and ability to form positive relationships. By promoting self-esteem, Wellstar can help children develop a positive self-image, resilience, and the ability to cope with challenges. This not only supports their mental and emotional health but also contributes to their physical well-being. High self-esteem can lead to better health outcomes, as children who feel good about themselves are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors. Incorporating self-esteem building activities and support into Wellstar’s programs can enhance their mission of improving the health and wellbeing of every patient, starting from a young age. This holistic approach ensures that children grow up with the confidence and skills needed to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Further, it shows Wellstar’s commitment to serving the community.”
From Shy Kids to Tomorrow’s Leaders
When kids believe in themselves, the possibilities are endless. They not only transform their own lives but inspire those around them. Margo Jordan, founder of Enrichly, has seen it firsthand: “It is wonderful to see the lives of children improving in so many ways when their self-esteem increases. This transformation turns them into leaders who are ready to take on the world with confidence and resilience.” Margo’s passion for this work is deeply personal. “As a kid, and even into adulthood, I suffered from low self-esteem which resulted in unhealthy coping skills, and I knew that other children suffered from the same thing,” she shares.”
A Brighter Future for All
This program isn’t just about boosting self-esteem; it’s about giving kids the tools to lead happier, healthier lives. John D. Cooper, Head of Venture Investment for Catalyst by Wellstar, puts it this way: “Children are always our future, and their healthcare is something we are focused on. As Wellstar expands caring for children across the state of Georgia with our recent partnership with Wellstar MCG Health and Children’s Hospital of Georgia, we are committed to making an impact and providing holistic care, including early interventions like Enrichly.”
As the program continues, Catalyst by Wellstar, Wellstar Center for Health Equity and Enrichly are dreaming big. They hope to expand this initiative, bringing its benefits to more kids and families. After all, every child deserves to feel like Jasmine—empowered, capable, and ready to take on the world.
If you’re curious about how this program could help your family or want to learn more, visit Enrichly. Let’s build a brighter future—one confident child at a time.