Melanin & Milkshakes
Melanin & Milkshakes is a spark of joy, igniting the potential within every Black and Brown girl through mentorship, workshops, and a vibrant community. We're a sisterhood of laughter, creativity, and resilience, fostering a space where dreams take flight, self-love flourishes, and every girl discovers her unique brilliance.
We're not just a program, we're a movement – a movement that's changing the narrative and empowering a new generation of leaders to take flight.
Why Melanin & Milkshakes
At Melanin & Milkshakes, we’re addressing the unique and alarming challenges that Black and Brown girls face.
More Likely to Attempt Suicide
Black girls are 50% more likely to attempt suicide than their White peers; and Latina girls have the highest rates of suicidal behavior compared to other girls.
This highlights the need for culturally relevant mental health support and programming to address unique stressors and challenges they face.
More Likely to Be Suspended
Black girls are 6x more likely to be suspended from school than white girls, and Latina girls are 1.5x more likely.
This disparity can lead to lower academic achievement and an increased risk of dropping out. Culturally relevant programs offer safe spaces for self-expression and identity development, curbing disciplinary actions and involvement in the criminal justice system.
Less Likely to Graduate
While graduation rates have increased in recent years, Black and Brown girls still have a lower high school graduation rate than their white peers, with 85% of Black girls and 87% of Latina girls graduating compared to the 92% of white girls who graduate.
This gap can be attributed to various factors, including systemic barriers, lack of culturally relevant support, and the impact of disciplinary disparities.
Our girls need culturally relevant programs and safe spaces to overcome these challenges
By enrolling your daughter in Melanin & Milkshakes, you're investing in a safe, supportive space where she'll build confidence, develop leadership skills, and connect with a community of peers who understand her experiences. Our program provides mentorship, creative outlets, and culturally relevant activities that empower Black and Brown girls to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.
Our Impact
Girls served through the initial
Melanin & Milkshakes pilot
11
100%
of participants reported an increased sense of belonging at school after participating in Melanin & Milkshakes.
of participants feel more confident navigating their world using the ideas and concepts learned in the program.
83%
NPS of 80
indicating that participants are highly likely to recommend the program to others.
“As an alum of San Francisco’s Public School of the Arts High, I remember what it was like to transfer into a community where adult Black women didn’t exist. We were alone in our desire for sisterhood and real connection. As I witnessed the first Melanin & Milkshakes meeting, I was reminded of how magical a space can be. Girls who have never spoken to each other in the hallways but in this space (their space) gave so much more than an acknowledgment. There was laughter, finger snaps, periodts, and amen affirmations after shared experiences. Watching them as they discovered their similarities and respected their differences was beautiful to see. So often, I hear how impossible they say it is for Black teenage girls to do that. Sure, it can be hard, but it’s definitely impossible if they don't have a space led by an elder to invite them in. Melanin & Milkshakes has provided that leadership and space.”
— Jo
Bring Melanin & Milkshakes to your school ✦
Bring Melanin & Milkshakes to your school ✦
Interested in bringing the transformative power of Melanin & Milkshakes to your school or organization?
We offer tailored partnerships designed to meet the specific needs of your community. Contact us today to learn more about how we can empower the Black and Brown girls you serve.
