Guilford County Top Teens of America

HISTORY OF GUILFORD COUNTY

TOP TEENS OF AMERICA

In 1964, the eight founders of Top Ladies of Distinction (TLOD) Inc.’s primary objective was to help alleviate the moral and social problems engulfing the youth in our communities. This was done via a youth organization. In 1968, while meeting in Fort Worth, Texas, the membership of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. decided that the group should have an official name. Lady Cordelia Mackey, President of the Texarkana Twin City Chapter, suggested the name of Top Teens of America. The name was adopted.

In 1969, there was a need to form a Top Teens of America group in each chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction. A committee was appointed and resultantly, the first National Top Teens of America convention was organized.

By March 1, 1987, the Guilford County Chapter of Top Teens of America plans was completed and ready for implementation. On the second Sunday in March, an induction ceremony for 32 teens was held at the Student Union Building on North Carolina A&T State University’s campus. The first officers were: Teen Rhonda Hopkins, President; Teen Jason A. Graves, Vice-President; Teen Marcia Clark, Secretary; Teen Rosalind Hicks, Treasurer; Teen Damien Bridges, Corresponding Secretary; Teen Sherrice Harrigan, Financial Secretary; Teen Erica Wilson, Parliamentarian; Andrew Brown, Chaplain; and Teen Ricky Jones, Sergeant-at-Arms.

The following objectives were developed for Top Teens to 1. Encourage high academic scholarship. 2. Develop social graces, leadership, and fellowship abilities. 3. Encourage pride in self, home, and community. 4. Encourage participation in workshops which are involved in present day trends. 5. Work cooperatively with other organizations to reach common goals. 6. Develop a deep concern for senior citizens.

Membership in Top Teens of America (TTA) is granted to teenagers from 13 to 19 years of age. Interested Teens must be sponsored by an active member of Top Ladies or any two active members in good standing of Top Teens of America.