CLEVELAND — A program that has been successful in helping young girls find their direction will soon be expanded to boys and run by the husband of the original program's founder.
Celina Broyles created "I Am Bella." Her program builds confidence and self-esteem in 12 young girls, and it's working.
Dr. Richard Reynolds, Principal Warrenville Heights High School, said the program has led to a "reduction in suspensions, referrals. A lot more mediations now."
Now boys are about to benefit from Broyles' approach too, with a little help from within her home.
"I pray that I can be a leader,” said Celina's husband Dwayne Broyles.
She figured out there's a way she can also help boys.
“Girls want to be called beautiful and I don't know a young boy or man that don't love to be called a King,” said Celina Broyles.
She used Dwayne as a test subject.
"There's a certain responsibility that I feel like I have and that I owe to the kids that come behind me,” he said.
The program for boys is called "It's Safe to Call Me King."
"It’s used as a term of endearment to the young boys,” said Dwayne Broyles.
Now the couple will coach boys together.
"I'm excited about this program, I'm excited about what we're doing,” said Celina Broyles.
This story is part of A Better Land, an ongoing series that investigates Northeast Ohio's deep-seated systemic problems. Additionally, it puts a spotlight on the community heroes fighting for positive change in Cleveland and throughout the region. If you have an idea for A Better Land story, tell us here.
