To inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold, and to respect themselves and the world around them.
Girls Inc. serves 1,300 girls in 21 schools with research-based programs and trained professionals (often older teens) who mentor them in a safe environment. Girls are inspired to pursue secondary education, develop leadership and decision-making skills, resist peer pressure, serve their communities, and acquire the ability and wisdom to lead healthy lifestyles.
Smart Choices, a summer program for 8th and 9th graders helps participants make positive life choices about school, relationships, and health during a week spent at UC Santa Cruz.
For 95% of our girls, this is their first time away from home. They experience college life and get a head start in planning for high school and beyond. The program addresses issues facing these girls by focusing on pursuing higher education — setting goals, making decisions, understanding the value of an education, and taking the necessary steps to achieve their goals.
With your support, we hope to serve 80 participants for 5 days: sessions from 9am-9pm, room and board, meals, materials, and transportation.
When I was in elementary school I was bullied. It was hard for me to make friends and I thought things wouldn't get better. When I found Girls Inc. I finally had a place where I could be myself. I learned how to make good choices, about health, and why it's important to say no to things that aren’t good for me. I learned to stand up for myself, how to achieve my dreams, and that I can go to college in the future.
Perla Rivera, 12, Watsonville
