Today we’d like to introduce you to Janelle Floyd.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Janelle. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My name is Janelle Floyd, I grew up in Coral Springs, Florida and received my Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism and psychology at Howard University in Washington, D.C. As I matriculated through grade school, I noticed being the only black girl in many settings. At first, it didn’t bring any attention, but the moment I began to grow into my personality and be outspoken and fierce – I was immediately labeled as disobedient or a threat. The feeling of being misunderstood is an emotion I know all too well and resulted in depression. I believe my experiences are common in the black community, specifically for our black girls. It gets exhausting always being misread and constantly being looked at as challenging, attitudinal or aggressive.
So I created Girls in Christ Inc. a Christian ministry for girls to grow in Confidence, Christ and Community. The program is a safe place for girls to explore their strengths, have candid conversations and learn about the love of God. I have realized the importance of safe environments for our girls to foster and develop into healthy young ladies. We focus on women in the bible and discuss how historical barriers are still present today. I strongly believe having a Christian, Girl-centered curriculum instills hope and enthusiasm for life. Depression has plagued our youth and it takes individual soul searching to overcome the dark times and I intend on brightening the days for our girls. That’s probably why our symbol is a sunflower.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Honestly? Girls in Christ was a God-ordained plan. Yes, there were some hiccups in the road but when you walk in your purpose things will fall into place. I am an accredited 501(C)3, and that wasn’t the easiest process but God equipped me. I WAS MADE FOR THIS!!! Literally!! Nothing worth having comes easy. So with any business, non-profit or idea you’ll probably run into some hard times but that’s ok. The process is to mold, shape and refine you. I needed the hiccups so I can appreciate the smoothness.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Girls in Christ Inc. story. Tell us more about your organization.
Girls in Christ Inc. is a 501(C)3 Christian ministry program based out of Fort Lauderdale, FL for girls who are eager to grow in Confidence, Christ and Community. We specialize in self-exploration and Christian teaching. Our goal is to provide girls with the spiritual support to navigate through life. We coordinate community service activities for the girls to lead such as feeding the homeless, diaper drives and school supplies giveaways. Our unique component is combining Confidence, Christ and Community. We intertwine the elements through journaling, bible studies, critical thinking exercises and much more!
We have been an active program for less than a year and have already completed three events, five community service activities and eight Bible studies. We do not measure our success by the number of completed programs but more so by level of influence. We’ve given out surveys and the feedback mirrors our mission, the girls really do feel comfortable and are learning about themselves and God. And I think what sets us apart from other programs is our complexity.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
This is an interesting question because, first and foremost, I don’t believe in “Luck”. Luck is earthly. Luck can even be good or bad, whereas I believe in mercy and grace. God’s mercy and grace – which is always good. And as a child of God, I count it all joy. So when plans fall through or the money is running low, its all a lesson. See, perspective is key when dealing with business. When one door shuts, praise him in the hallway. Because we are constantly being protected from unseen dangers, so “no” is usually a blessing in disguise.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 9549137228
- Email: girlsinchristbroward@gmail.com
- Instagram: girlsinchrist_
- Facebook: girlsinchrist
- Other: https://giv.li/9qo8bl
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