At Pretty Purposed, we know that the secret to our success is no secret at all—it’s our people. Each month, over 200 adolescent and teen girls across our programs are uplifted, empowered, and encouraged through the mentorship and support of our incredible volunteers.
This Volunteer Appreciation Month, we’re shining a spotlight on the volunteers who help us nurture girl-centered work every single day. While some of our volunteers are mentors, making direct connections with our girls, we also have volunteers packing curriculum boxes, setting up for special events, tabling at community outreach activities, event planning, and even delivering materials to our school sites.
We asked two of our longtime volunteers, Stephanie and DeAnna, to reflect on their Pretty Purposed journey—what drew them in, what keeps them coming back, and what they’ve learned along the way.
Stephanie’s Story: “I grow, then they grow.”
Stephanie’s path to Pretty Purposed began in a moment of community connection.
“I used to work at a women's homeless shelter, and Pretty Purposed came one day with personal hygiene bags. I asked about the organization, looked them up, and eventually applied to volunteer. I started mentoring, and I’ve stayed because I love the positive impact. I even learn things along the way.”
One of the moments that stuck with Stephanie was a career fair, where Walmart truck drivers brought a rig for the girls to explore.
“They showed the girls around the truck, and I learned they make $60-80K a year. I said—I need to drive a truck myself! The girls were so excited. Some started talking about engineering careers. Those kinds of moments are powerful.”
For Stephanie, volunteering has shifted her worldview.
“I grew up in a two-parent home, but some of our girls are adopted or live with grandparents. You realize you have to be patient and empathetic. You learn to celebrate small victories. Sometimes it’s learning how to sew, or how to do their makeup. And I learn too.”
Her advice for new volunteers?
“Come in with an open heart. Don’t be standoffish—get involved, be consistent, and build real connections. Some girls start in 6th grade and you see them graduate. You watch them grow up—and it’s transformational.”
Volunteer Stephanie helping with event set up and guiding a participant to select tea at our 2024 tea party
DeAnna’s Journey: “You get as much as you give.”
After graduating college and landing her first full-time job, DeAnna was searching for a way to give back.
“Growing up, I was always in community programs, and my mom worked at a nonprofit. When I got home, a colleague on the Pretty Purposed board told me I’d be a great fit—and I said yes right away.”
For DeAnna, watching the girls evolve is the biggest reward.
“One girl started in middle school, quiet and shy. We connected, and I watched her grow into a leader—still introverted, but confident. She started helping new girls with their goals. Seeing her blossom into herself? That’s what keeps you coming back.”
Volunteering has also been a mirror for personal growth.
“Being around the girls reminded me to practice what I preach. I’d put my phone down during sessions because I was asking them to do the same. I wanted to be someone they’d look up to. Mentoring helped me become the best version of myself.”
Her advice to others?
“Be open-minded and ready to grow, just like the girls. You’re not just giving advice—you’re going to receive it too. If you’re consistent, reliable, and fully present, you’ll see how much it changes you.”
DeAnna adds that appreciation goes both ways:
“The girls will gas you up and tell you they love your hair—when you least expect it. And the Pretty Purposed team pours into their volunteers. You feel appreciated. It’s not a thankless job—it’s one filled with love.”
Deanna is an event planner and has volunteered her event planning services to Pretty Purposed for multiple years.
From Heart to Action
Stephanie and DeAnna are two of many who make Pretty Purposed such a transformative space. Their stories remind us that mentoring is not a one-way street—it’s a shared journey of growth, healing, and discovery.
If their words moved you, consider volunteering or becoming a monthly donor to help sustain the programs that make stories like theirs possible.
Mentors Deanna, Lotoria, Stephanie, and Lauren pose after a mentoring session.
