DonateChicago youth development nonprofit
Cycles to Wings helps young women ages 12–24 discover who they are, develop the skills they need for life, and become the women they were created to be.
Cycles are inherited. Wings are chosen.
Our mission
The founder’s story
Cycles to Wings was born from Sherita Hamlin’s lived experience and her belief that a young woman’s beginning does not have to determine her ending. Becoming a mother at 18 brought her face-to-face with cycles that can be inherited across generations. Rather than allow those patterns to define her family’s future, she made intentional choices to build something different for herself and her children.
Through years of community leadership and the creation of The H.E.R. Experience, Sherita saw how many women were still healing from wounds that began when they were girls. That realization shaped a deeper question: What could change if young women were supported before those cycles had the chance to take root?
Cycles to Wings is her answer—a place where young women are seen, equipped, mentored, and reminded that they have the power to understand their story without being limited by it.
“I want every young woman to discover who she is before life tells her who she should be.”
Growing at every stage
Our programming meets young women where they are and surrounds them with practical education, trusted mentorship, and a community that believes in their future.
Ages 12–15
A nurturing early-teen experience focused on identity, emotional wellness, healthy relationships, practical life skills, and discovering the strength already within.
Ages 16–24
Our future flagship young-women’s experience will build confidence, leadership, financial independence, career readiness, and the tools to shape a future with intention.
Future program • Updates to comeThe Journey to Wings
Our year-long flagship experience combines workshops, mentor check-ins, community service, and meaningful milestones—helping every participant turn self-discovery into lasting change.
Identity, gifts, voice, and vision.
Skills, confidence, and healthy choices.
Leadership, purpose, and legacy.
What we build together
Practical tools for confident, independent living.
Safe, trauma-informed spaces for healing and growth.
Money skills that help young women build choices.
Boundaries, safety, communication, and self-worth.
Exposure, preparation, and pathways to purpose.
Service and opportunities to use their voices for change.
The Butterfly Creed
I am not defined by where I come from.
I am defined by where I am going.
I am worthy of love, respect, and every good thing life has to offer.
I will not shrink. I will not hide. I will not settle for less than I deserve.
I am building something the world has never seen —
a version of me that is whole, healed, and unstoppable.
I know who I am.
I know whose I am.
And I know what I am capable of.
The cycle stops with me.
The legacy starts with me.
I am not a caterpillar forever.
I was always meant to fly.
I am Cycles to Wings.
And I choose my wings.
Be part of the transformation
Share your time, perspective, and encouragement with a young woman on her journey.
I’m interested →Bring Cycles to Wings workshops and programming to your school or community.
Let’s connect →Your support helps provide mentors, materials, meals, experiences, and safe spaces.
Cycles to Wings is recognized as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
Donate securely through Zeffy →Volunteer with us
Cycles to Wings is building a community of caring adults and supporters who believe in showing up with consistency, compassion, and purpose. Tell us how you would like to help, and we will contact you as opportunities become available.
Fill Out the Volunteer Interest Form →The form opens securely in a new window. Volunteer opportunities involving direct contact with youth may require an application, background screening, orientation, and role-specific training.
Support activities, life-skills sessions, and participant experiences.
Help with welcoming, setup, meals, celebrations, and community events.
Share resources, build awareness, and connect families to the mission.
Contribute professional, creative, organizational, or behind-the-scenes skills.
Contact Cycles to Wings
Questions about our programs, partnerships, volunteering, or supporting the mission? We would love to hear from you.
The journey starts here
Help a young woman discover who she is—and become who she was created to be.
Cycles are inherited. Wings are chosen.