
The Mary B. Thomas Girls Youth Circle (MBTGYC) — a non-profit organization sponsored by the Prince Hall Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star and The Rite of Adoption for The State of South Carolina and Jurisdiction — held its first meeting on June 30, enrolling 16 new girls into Unit No. 16 (Union County). The group’s regular meeting time will be at 10 a.m. on the second Saturday of every month at the Foster Chapel Lodge No. 460 in Jonesville.
Jacqueline Stewart — the Mother Adviser of the MBTGYC — said the group’s purpose is to train young girls ages 8-18 for a better tomorrow. Stewart said the group will promote association with worthwhile companions, stimulate interest in higher education and encourage civic mindedness in the community, rendering service wherever possible. She said the group’s purpose also includes helping the moral attitude of the youth, particularly in conduct and appearance.
“These young ladies are part of a prestigious group that is committed to community service and education,” Stewart said. “As MBTGYC girls, they will have a tremendous amount of fun, learn many important things and become leaders in their communities. Over the course of their lives, the lessons learned will help the girls contribute more to their families and communities as well as their nation’s workforce.”
Stewart says she and the other advisers of the group believe with the assistance of the parents, grandparents, guardians and members of the community, the group can be very successful.
“As we face a complex and rapidly changing 21st century, our nation needs all girls to reach their full potential,” Stewart said.
Dedicated to mentoring these young ladies, the advisers of the group include Jacqueline Stewart, Mother Adviser; Vivian Sims, Assistant Mother Advisor; Mary Thompson, Assistant Mother Advisor; Ruthie Gault, Assistant Mother Advisor; Mary Ann Gist, Grand Associate Deputy of Union County (District 5); Geraldine Rice, Assistant Mother Advisor; and Delois Moore, Assistant Mother Advisor.








