Snapshots of Fun and Friendship: BLUSH Youth Group

In 2015, Ms. Renee Brown began working at Mauldin Middle School as a 7th-grade counselor. She quickly recognized the need for girls to experience a genuine sense of sisterhood, as many felt they were navigating life without a support system of peers to rely on. Understanding the importance of connection and mutual support, Ms. Brown began gathering a small group of girls to spend time together, sharing experiences and identifying ways to support and uplift one another through the challenges of middle school.

After a few meetings, the group decided to formalize their gatherings and came up with the name BLUSH, which stands for "Beautiful, Lovable, Unique SisterHood." The organization’s mission is to help girls grow in self-confidence and embrace new, diverse experiences so they are better prepared to take on life after high school.

Now in its 10th year as an established organization at Mauldin Middle School, BLUSH is known for life-changing field trips, community service initiatives, and offering a welcoming space for students seeking identity and belonging. Ms. Brown also developed a curriculum called "Ready for Success," which the group follows each year. This curriculum includes guest speakers, community-building activities, and practical life skills such as interviewing, résumé building, and learning proper etiquette.