For over two decades, Cheryl Ann Wadlington has worked to help create a thriving, resourceful environment for young women in Philadelphia.
Wadlington’s efforts have led to the success of ‘The Evoluer House,’ a local nonprofit that helps young women envision a prosperous future through empowerment programs.
The organization focuses on improving the mental health of young women from underserved communities. Wadlington says that most people don’t know the mental health challenges young women from these backgrounds face.
“They’re disproportionately pushed out of school, they’re over policed and under-protected, and the suicide among Black girls is a mental health crisis hiding in plain sight,” she said.
According to a 2019 study, suicide death rates for Black American girls ages 13 to 19 increased by 182% from 2001 to 2017.
Black women also reportedly make up 40% of people who have survived sex trafficking.
“This is why The Evoluer House exists, because we have to be here,” Wadlington added.
Wadlington, a former Temple University instructor and Philadelphia Parks & Recreation leader, helps manage a set of 8 to 9-week programs that target workforce and personal development.
These efforts include improving work-readiness and leadership skills, self-esteem building, college preparedness, and much more.
The Evoluer House, which in French means ‘grow and change,’ was recently recognized with a $10,000 grant by Paramount’s MTV for its social impact.
Wadlington was surprised to receive the award ahead of Mental Health Action Day, where the network partners with more than 2,700 nonprofits from over 32 countries.
“MTV is a global network. We got selected out of more than 500 applications,” said Wadlington. “I was humbled and so happy because mental health is a big deal.”
The Old City-based nonprofit teamed up with CBS Philadelphia on Thursday, May 15, to host the ‘Healthy Girl Summer’ workshop at Girard College. Volunteers helped pack gift bags filled with affirmation bracelets, yoga mats, stress balls, and journals to promote self-care and confidence.
The Evoluer House will soon prepare for its annual ‘Holistic Me’ virtual workshop to continue pushing the program’s mission forward.
“It’s been going on for a good 20 years. We keep it fresh, it’s not the same stale program,” Wadlington said. “It started being virtual around the COVID-19 pandemic. We were at Peirce College for 12 years.”
As a result of going virtual, Wadlington says the Holistic Me program has become national.
“It’s not only for girls in Philadelphia. It’s for girls around the world,” she added.
Recognized by former President Barack Obama, the program is free for girls from low-income households, with scholarship opportunities available to attend.
Wadlington says the program addresses intersectionality, girls’ rights and education, how to navigate microaggressions, and resume writing.
“It is a gender responsive, culturally relevant program,” she said. “We’re teaching our girls now how to navigate to be able to achieve their dreams and thrive.”
The program series begins on June 23 and runs through Aug. 22 for ages 13-18. Those interested in signing up could do so online before spaces quickly fill up.
