The Young Women program, based on gospel values, "helps young women make decisions on a daily basis that are consistent with gospel principles," explained Young Women general president Ardeth G. Kapp.

"The program gives young women a sense of identity, a sense of direction, and a sense of purpose," she continued. "Through the Young Women program, they actually learn to live gospel principles on a day-to-day basis."Although all seven of the Young Women values are emphasized through the Young Women program, service is something that Pres. Kapp, along with her counselors, hopes to focus on this year.

"The value of good works cannot be overlooked," observed Jayne B. Malan, first counselor in the general presidency. "Instead of just planning service projects, we hope to focus on a general attitude of service, of always being aware of and caring for others. While we will continue to schedule service projects, we want to emphasize building the kingdom on an ongoing basis."

Through service and good works, young women can build their own self-esteem, as well as strengthen relationships with their Heavenly Father, family and friends, pointed out Elaine L. Jack, second counselor in the general presidency. "Ultimately, it is that increased spirituality, that stronger relationship with Heavenly Father, that fulfills the basic purpose of the Young Women program of bringing young women to Christ."

One of the highlights of this year's Young Women activities is the organization's 120th anniversary to be celebrated later this month. For more than a year, Young Women leaders have been planning for the event. Activities include listening to a tape by President Ezra [Taft] Benson (which has been translated into 16 languages so young women can hear the message in their own language), responding to the ringing of a bell, and making a commitment to follow the prophet as they celebrate their part in the worldwide organization - an organization that truly can make a difference.

The Young Women presidency shared a letter recently received from a Laurel to illustrate that point.

"Dear Sister Kapp," the letter begins. "I wanted to write and thank you and your counselors for the Young Women program and what it is today - particularly the seven values. Through one of these values, my life has already changed so much."

The Laurel talked about a goal she'd set as a junior in high school to try and help someone in some small way every day. "So every day before I went to school, I prayed and asked Heavenly Father to let me have the influence of the Spirit, to know what He wanted me to do or say. I began to see how everything we do affects others. I began to feel better about myself and at the same time, more humble. I feel so much closer to my Heavenly Father," she wrote.

"That's what the program is all about," Pres. Kapp observed. "That's the effect the program can have in every young woman's life."