One of CDW’s clients, Kyna McKenzie was training for her first half-marathon in Fall 2006. She contacted us earlier in the year to participate in an event organized by a group called BOND, Inc (Bringing On New Direction Inc.). Unfortunately, we were unable to participate due to a scheduling conflict. We finally met and following is a discussion on BOND, Inc.
Thank you Kyna for taking the time to talk about this fairly new yet innovative organization you’re apart of:
RC: Tell us a little about BOND, Inc and its mission.
KM: Bringing On New Direction Inc., also called BOND, was established in November 2004 to act as a resource in the Baltimore community for young women of color who want to enhance their educational, professional, personal and spiritual lives. Our President and Founder, Nayvette Fowlkes, had a vision as far back as high school to start an organization with a mission to provide, create, nurture, and maintain a positive environment of growth, challenge and unlimited possibilities for every woman that desires it. BOND upholds this mission through monthly gatherings where we establish strong, supportive relationships with one another and also through our community service by being of assistance to those in need.
One of BOND’s main attractions is our monthly BOND Gatherings. We wanted to change the negative stereotype that society has about black women not being able to get along. Our BOND Sisters, as we refer to one another, gather every 3rd Friday of the month at different members homes where we kick off our shoes, relax, and just bond. We range in age from mid twenties to early thirties. We have in- depth conversations about such topics as prayer, goal setting, issues effecting women, relationships, leadership, employment preparation and other areas of interest that will uplift, motivate, and empower each other.
RC: What are some of the activities the organization is involved with?
KM: In a short amount of time we have made a huge impact on the community. For several months this year, we assisted the International Rescue Committee with planning their 1st Annual Women's Day Breakfast. This is an international holiday celebrating the courageous efforts of female refugees. We’ve raised money for survivors of hurricane Katrina. We also held a panty drive for Turn-Around Domestic Violence Center. We acted as a support system to a young teenage mother. With our help we got her housing and into a nursing program where she is doing extremely well. We have facilitated and put together such programs as: Self-Esteem/Self-Image Seminars, Mother-Daughter Brunch, Sister-2-Sister Brunch, to just name a few. We are now in the planning stages of establishing our mentor/mentee program for our members and young girls in our community. Through our numerous fundraising efforts we are raising money for our Taliea Hudson Scholarship Fund. Lastly but certainly not least, we are in the final stages of obtaining our 501 c 3 status.
RC: How can someone become a member? Or donate time or services?
KM: As you can see we are women on the move! We are always looking to increase our membership, so if you or anyone you know would like to create lasting friendships, give back through community involvement, and develop and/or promote their skills and interests you may contact us at info@bondinc.org or call our Membership Liaison at 410-782-1716 or Kyna McKenzie, Vice President at 443-801-4479. Our mailing address is PO Box 65126 Baltimore MD 21209.
RC: How does someone contact BOND for more information of your community
involvement?
KM: If you'd like more information or would like to make a donation please contact us at the contact information above.
Update Note: Kyna and her husband Sean successfully completed the Baltimore 2006 marathon on October 14, 2006.
