July Mission Partner: Girls, Inc.

The Community & Global Missions Board welcomes the YWCA’s Girls, Inc. as its July monthly mission. While the YWCA is missioned to “eliminate racism and empower women,” Girls, Inc. is missioned to “inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold.” The Girls, Inc. experience focuses on six key elements woven into activities planned for the September-May school year program and/or the week-long summer day camp experience. Through Girls, Inc., participants understand that they have the right to: *be themselves and to resist gender stereotypes; *express themselves with originality and enthusiasm; *take risks, to strive freely and to take pride in their successes; *accept and appreciate their bodies; *have confidence in themselves and be safe in the world; and *prepare for interesting work and economic independence. Bethlehem has chosen to support the summer day camp experience where girls K-3rd grade learn leadership skills and character development, and high school girls explore the broad concepts of physical and mental health, career exploration, and college prep. Monthly mission dollars will support the summer day camp experience at a cost of $150 per girl. (The Board has set a goal of raising $1500.) Full and partial scholarship dollars make it possible for girls from all walks of life to participate, regardless of their family’s economic situation. Bethlehem has the opportunity to provide this experience to girls who, without our support, might never have the chance to build upon their Godgiven personal strengths and dreams. Your donation can, quite literally, change the direction of one young girl. We hope you will consider the magic made possible through your philanthropic support.