From helping those in need to providing a sense of purpose and community for our volunteers, Women of Colors focuses on activities that benefit the Great Lakes Bay Region. What does WOC mean to you? In this feature, we share a little about what it means to us.
“Every time I have an opportunity to interact with our youth, I get a chance to see the world through fresh eyes. Their infectious energy, curiosity, and imagination remind me how exciting the world can be and encourage me to continue to fulfill my own dreams. For me, there’s no greater sense of accomplishment and fulfillment than knowing you are changing the youth’s outlook and direction in life for the better.”
—Michelle McCoy, Leader in Your Voice Your Choice
“Women of Colors is all about mentoring the youth and empowering women. As we looked within the communities, we discovered many families living in poverty and many underprivileged children who were going without even the bare necessities such as warm coats. By the grace of God and supporters, we [helped fulfill] that need.”
—Vicki Hill, Coordinator of Warm a Child for Winter
“I’m Still a Man was essential to my development as a leader. It was important to be able to talk about issues I have experienced and to let others know they are not alone in their quest to become a better person.”
—Chris Packard, Panelist for I’m Still a Man
“I think I’m a much better person than I used to be because of the work and the experience that I’ve acquired with Women of Colors. It has given me a passion and a humbleness that I never thought were in me. I’m just so blessed! People say we bless them, but I’m also receiving the blessing. I’ve proven to myself that I can serve my community well. It took me a long time to accept myself as a leader or president; now I accept my service for what it is. I hope that Women of Colors will become a nationwide organization one day because our mission is beyond Saginaw. This organization should be an organization that’s all over this country to form unity and love among people.”
—Evelyn McGovern, WOC President and Cofounder
“I was one of the fastest to complete [WOC’s science and technology] programs. I love it. They told me that I can do whatever I want to do. Now I am planning bigger and better things for the future. I want to go into computer science or engineering because I love technology. [The Students and Future Technology program] has opened my eyes. Not many girls know about this or do it. It improves your chances for scholarships and getting into colleges and other opportunities.”
—Kelcei Schultz, Mentor for Students and Future Technology
“Many variants have transformed our group through collaboration with other Great Lakes Bay agencies. My perception of how far Women of Colors has come is due to the leadership and volunteers as we have learned to pivot during this pandemic since last year by doing remote sessions. WOC has shown fastidious decision making during the highs and lows that many nonprofit organizations experience.”
—Lula Woodard, Volunteer of 20+ Years
“Given the present state of the world, especially where race relations are concerned, the subject matter [systemic racism] can be very challenging because the topics are emotionally stirring and it’s a lived reality that goes beyond a conversation. I hope that others were inspired to speak up, and to have conversations wherever they may find themselves.”
—Omar Jones, Panelist for Time to Have a Conversation