LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Getting young minds ready for the future is the goal of a South Lake County program that is growing in popularity, and three high school girls minds are getting sharper thanks to the mentoring program.

For Zanyjah Patrick, she has polished up on her science work.

"It's OK, it's just food chains and food webs," Patrick said.

Janelle Jackson is a high school sophomore who enjoys being with her new group of friends.

"We are reading 'Monday's Not Coming' by Tiffany D. Jackson," Jackson said.

Those are just some activities they do as part of the O.U.R. Girls Mentoring Program under the Stuckey Community Involvement Group. O.U.R stands for Optimistic, Unique, Resilient.

The program teaches those pillars — and then some.

"It's super important because they get assistance with homework help. It gives them an opportunity to engage in reading and furthering their skills," said Shayla Mobley, vice president for Stuckey Community Improvement Group.

The program also offers summer camps, teaches etiquette, promotes volunteerism and helps with college prep.

When the program started several years ago, only about 10 girls took advantage. It has blossomed to 60.

"You don't feel like you're being judged, bullied or any of that," Mya Williams said. "You can just come and be yourself and be loved, basically."