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Allison James The "youthpreneur"

Allison “The YouthPreneur” James, is a survivor of domestic violence, child sexual abuse, and homelessness. She grew up in poverty, amidst intense violence in the Stella Wright Housing Projects of Newark, NJ, where her father was murdered in a violent stabbing attack, leaving her mother to raise eight children on her own. Instead of letting those traumas, hardships and adversities define who she is, Allison used them to fuel her drive for a better life, one that includes philanthropy; hence, GIRLS; Live, Love, Laugh, Inc. was born! It’s a Newark-Based non-profit organization devoted to promotion and support of underprivileged girls. The young girls of Newark are the leaders of tomorrow, but many of the city’s young girls need a safe haven that allows them to positively express themselves and explore new opportunities. In honor of her steadfast commitment, Mayor Ras J. Baraka named September 14th Allison James-Frison Day and September 16th Girls; Live, Love, Laugh Inc. Day in The City Of Newark; making Newark the only city in the country, to dedicate an entire day to celebrate girls, to show them that they are important, that they are loved and they are supported in all that they do.

Most recently, Mrs. James became a newly appointed Commissioner of The City Newark, NJ’s Commission on The Status Of Women (CSW), the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women. A functional commission of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), which was established in June 1946. The CSW is instrumental in promoting women’s rights, documenting the reality of women’s lives throughout the world, and shaping global standards on gender equality and the empowerment of women.

Girls; Live, Love, Laugh, Inc. was founded in 2009 by Allison “The YouthPreneur” James, who sought to motivate and empower girls ages 6 – 16. She developed weekly mentoring workshops and countless community-based initiatives, including the annual Girls Matter Walk, which manifests the dedication, excellence and commitment of the organization, its young girls and alumni. Under the leadership of Executive Director, Allison James, GLLL has made an impact on an untold number of at risk girls in need, through their programs on education, health, fitness, etiquette, community service, building self-esteem and self-respect and helping girls make positive life choices. She also enlists the assistance of other dynamic women within the community, whom like her, overcame obstacles and have a desire to make a difference. Girls; Live, Love, Laugh, Inc. was founded on a philosophy that with the proper tools, resources, leadership, and love…girls living in the inner city of Newark can beat the odds!