The Gullah Geechee Initiative Foundation, Inc. (GGIF), in partnership with the Beaufort County Black Chamber of Commerce, started the new year off with its Financial Literacy Workshop 101 on Jan. 7.

By applying the knowledge from this financial literacy workshop, the involved 4th- and 5th-graders will learn how to set goals and develop a business plan to successfully operate a lemonade stand pop-up shop.

Also, during Black History Month, GGIF will host a workshop at the St. Helena Branch Library to introduce the fundamentals of genealogical research and the uniqueness of searching for Gullah Geechee ancestors.

For youth, genealogy can promote critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and life-long learning that inspire a love for history, pride in cultural heritage, and self-confidence. These young historians learn where they might find information about their own ancestors in particular.

The Gullah Geechee Initiative Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides academic, cultural, and athletic services to youth who are indigenous to The Gullah Geechee Heritage Corridor, preparing them for community service and a life of excellence. Our programs foster knowledge of self and preventing youth from engaging in juvenile delinquency and poor academic performance.