Dr. Yoder Milton is an educator, mentor, author, entrepreneur and community advocate in Daytona Beach, Florida. In 2017, Dr. Milton founded Girls with Class Mentoring at Turie T. Small Elementary School to serve girls ages 8-11. Girls with Class aims to empower young women to be the best they can be socially, academically, mentally, and physically through mentoring on subjects like financial literacy, etiquette, self-esteem, and goal setting.
“I was inspired to begin Girls with Class because our young ladies needed a positive program that would be engaging, empowering, and expose them to experiences and opportunities that they otherwise may not have,” said Dr. Milton. “As an educator, I witnessed girls who needed their leadership qualities cultivated, girls who needed guidance and encouragement, and needed to be celebrated for their successes.”
Dr. Milton exemplifies the Royal Neighbors mission to empower women and support their communities. She was presented with one of ten Nation of Neighbors℠ empowerment awards and grants presented nationwide. In addition to the award, she received a $10,000 grant for her program.
Royal Neighbors Member Jerutha Hough nominated Dr. Milton for the award. “Dr. Milton is a community servant who inspires others to strive for excellence and is a positive role model to those in her community,” said Jerutha.
Dr. Milton plans to use the grant to apply for nonprofit status, expand the program to serve more young women in the community, incorporate more STEAM activities and experiences, and provide care packages and clothing for girls in need. “With the increase in youth suicide and youth engaging in inappropriate activities, mentors and mentoring programs are vital, especially to our most vulnerable and troubled children,” said Dr. Milton.
In addition to the Nation of Neighbors empowerment award, Dr. Milton has received several awards for her community work including the Kathy Perkins Faithful Servant Award, Teacher of the Year, and the Keiser University Distinguished and Community Leadership Award. In 2020, Dr. Milton was recognized on Good Morning America.
