"I came to CBSBB in 2001 after learning about the program. I was matched with a Big Sister named Gerda and we have been matched for over 3 years. I am also a graduate of the original Girl Power With Pennies program. I believe I am who I am today because of CBSBB. I became involved with the programs at a very crucial time in my life (teenage years). I now know how to manage my money and my self esteem has sky-rocketed. There are many obstacles that we go through and having people that support us makes life a bit easier. Each program offers so much knowledge and fun, and I feel like it has helped expand my mind and open us up to different experiences. With the help of CBSBB and my Big Sister Gerda, I am currently a Sophmore at Dominican Academy and I am majoring in Occupational Therapy. I hope to work with kids who have special needs."  - Erica Ramos, Age 20

"I participated in the BWIT and FOCUS programs. I saw the flyer posted in my school and became a part of the agency. These programs have influenced me significantly. Through FOCUS, I was able to connect with college students through the email buddy program. They really advised me on college issues and the college process. I am currently a Freshman at Union College studying Political Science and Africana Studies. BWIT helped me get a taste of what it is like to work in business. CBSBB helped me to be more well-rounded and opened my eyes to what my future could be like. The program allowed me to meet new people and to be a part of a team for a lifetime." - Nadia Alexis, Age 18

“I joined the agency in 2002. I was a part of BWIT, FOCUS, GPWP and PALS. I loved promoting our product in the business program – strawberry scented lotion. I remember one day a few years back, while sun-tanning with my friends, we realized that we did not have sunblock. Lucky for us, I had our strawberry lotion (SPF 15) with me! All of my friends loved it and it brought in some business. I also enjoyed my experiences learning from experts at Citigroup. I was glad to develop my public speaking skills and to receive advice from them. I think that CBSBB has influenced my career decisions. Because of all of the programs I participated in, I have chosen to major in business. I realized how much I loved working with money and being financially independent. I am currently a Freshman at Villanova University and hope to a successful banker on wall street. CBSBB programs are educational and fun – I learned so many interesting things while making new friends.” - Kelia Frias, age 18

“I joined the agency in 2001 and participated in GPWP, PALS and BWIT. My mother and I also met with a counselor a few times and I was a student intern. Some of my favorite CBSBB memories are just hanging out with girls from all different schools and talking about programs and other things. Barriers that may have been there between the girls disappeared. I also enjoyed making a movie for PALS (former program) and speaking at the May Gala. By participating in CBSBB programs, it just strengthened my desire to study a business related field in college. It was also empowering in the sense that I gained the ability to take care of myself. I have recommended and will continue to recommend the agency to others. It gives girls and boys an opportunity to learn many things in a fun way and in a safe environment.” - Erica Ramos, age 20

“I joined the agency in 2001 and learned about it through my school. I participated in all of the after school programs and helped to start the first student run business. I was the Vice President of Marketing for a year and am now an Alumni Advisor to the business as well as an email buddy for girls in the FOCUS program. The programs taught us to save money using the “Envelope Savings System” and I still use it! I remember this because it was so smart. I also remember when I presented in front of other girls which was really exciting because they listened to us and were interested in what we had to say. BWIT helped me decide that I wanted to do something with business in college. I am currently a Freshman at City College and want to major in Marketing or Psychology. I tell everyone about the agency and what a good program it is and how it has helped me in many different ways. All of my guy friends joined the program as a result!” - Ivette Torres, age 18

“I joined the program in high school and learned about it through a friend. I loved when we developed our business in BWIT and created our first product. Those were very fun times and we learned a lot through trial and error. I loved all of the programs – they were awesome! They also helped me build good friendships with the girls and the FOCUS program helped me apply to college. I am currently a Sophmore at Baruch College and majoring in Business Communications. I want to eventually work in public relations and go back to graduate school.” - Ama Intsiful, Age 19