In the News

As part of National Mentoring Month, U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson, R-Benton, recently recognized the Beauregard Christian Women’s Job Corps in DeRidder.

Mentorship is “an important part of any healthy organization and community,” and the BCWJC recognizes “the value of mentoring as a means of success,” Johnson said

BCWJC director Peggy Renfrow said she was honored to have the group’s volunteers recognized for their hard work and dedication.

“Everyone in this organization, from our teachers and office staff to our mentors, is volunteering their own time to be here,” she said. “They truly make the difference for the women who come through our doors.”

The organization provides two 12-week programs at no cost each year to teach local women job and life skills. Renfrow said students also learn how to manage conflict and improve their parenting.

She said each woman is assigned a mentor — “basically their own personal cheerleader who motivates them to complete the class.” She said the mentors often push participants to new heights even after graduation.

“The impact our mentors have had on their students has been amazing,” she said.

“We have had students who go on to attend and graduate college because of the confidence they gained from just having someone believe in them. That is the difference a true mentor can make.”