Learn how to mind your manners, please

Carma Griffin wants younger generations to mind their manners, and she is willing to teach them how.

The Greenbrier resident started the nonprofit institution H.E.I.R.S. Institute of Etiquette and Leadership five years ago. The company's name has a two-fold meaning to Griffin: The acronym stands for "His Everyday I Rightfully Stand," and the word heirs means inheritance.

At H.E.I.R.S. Institute, boys and girls ages 8 to 18 enroll in a 12-week session costing $325. The training, complete with a workbook, includes everyday etiquette and dining, social dance and leadership skills.

Students learn handshaking, name recognition, proper introductions, conversation skills, mock interviewing, public speaking, writing thank-you notes, ABCs of table manners, confidence building, dance skills and more.

"They learn everything they need to be leaders of excellence," said Griffin, the mother of two.

"I worked with young people, and I realized the mannerisms and morals I grew up with were fading," Griffin said. "My vision for H.E.I.R.S. Institute is to preserve the children of this generation from a corrupt and perverse society."

A part-time office manager for a financial adviser, Griffin, 46, already earned a degree in accounting when she decided to return to college for a class in biblical studies. That one class led to many more, and this summer the Elizabeth City, N.C., native will receive her bachelor's degree in biblical studies from Tidewater Bible College.

One of her assignments was to find a need and come up with a solution.

"I decided there was a need to bring civility back into society," Griffin said.

From the assignment, Griffin developed a paper, which grew into workshops and seminars. She then earned a certificate from the Etiquette and Leadership Institute in Athens, Ga., and H.E.I.R.S. Institute was born.

"I want to get back to building a legacy so our young people have a sense of civility," said Griffin, who is also considering workshops for adults.

"Young ladies and gentlemen will be equipped for the future, empowered to achieve their full potential, and encouraged to believe in their dreams as they are escorted into tomorrow as strong, confident, committed community leaders of excellence," Griffin said.

Jenequa Daye, 13, is in her 11th week of the program and admits she was unsure what to expect, but has learned a lot from it.

"When I used to greet people, I was shy, but now I have confidence," said Jenequa, who lives in Deep Creek. "I know this will help me out later in life."

Sandra J. Pennecke, pennecke@cox.net