ATLANTA, June 25, 2009— The “Power of Girls” mentoring program recently gathered together for a “Power Lesson” hosted by Bank of America, one of the program’s sponsors. Representatives from the College Park branch talked with the girls about financial responsibility and addressed topics such as budgeting, opening bank accounts, check writing, and savings. Volunteer cheerleaders were also in attendance to help the girls work through financial problem solving activities.

Outside of attending a series of “Power Lessons,” the girls have been reading the novel Make Lemonade by Virginia Wolff, and have been keeping track of minutes read as a part of the WNBA’s Read to Achieve program. Upcoming “Power of Girls” events include a bowling outing with Dream players and members of the Shooting Stars, a “Power Lesson” on self esteem and body image, and a pool party.

Each spring, the Atlanta Dream selects thirteen girls from the metro Atlanta community to participate in their “Power of Girls” mentoring program presented by Bank of America and co-presented by Coca-Cola. The selected girls interact closely with the Atlanta Dream staff, players and Shooting Stars who serve as mentors for the group. The program provides a comfortable environment in which the girls are encouraged to explore new opportunities designed to stimulate self-reflection and personal growth. Each participant will come away with an experience that is both challenging and rewarding.