We’re proud to partner with Girls Inc. through a $100k Aerie Real Foundation Signature Grant, helping to expand their Mind Body Matters program to several new markets. The program teaches girls how mental and physical wellbeing work together to manage stress and build confidence. We chatted with the Girls Inc. Team and learned more about the work they do. Read our conversation below!
A. Girls Inc. of New York City builds confidence in young women through providing comprehensive, research-based programs that support their mental, physical, and emotional development. Our mission is to inspire girls to be strong, smart, and bold, equipping them to navigate societal challenges and become leaders in their communities. Program areas include mental health, leadership development, STEM, financial literacy, college access, college persistence, career readiness, and more.
A. With support from the Aerie Real Foundation Signature Grant, Girls Inc. is expanding our Mind Body Matters program to reach 5,000–6,000 girls annually across several cities. This innovative program helps girls take charge of their mental and physical health through interactive, culturally responsive lessons that build confidence, reduce stress, and support academic success. Survey results across age groups—from elementary to high school students and alumni—show significant improvements in confidence, self-efficacy, decision-making, resilience, and interpersonal skills, underscoring the programs’ effectiveness in fostering personal growth and well-being.
A. Girls Inc. of NYC reaches more than 10,000 girls a year and our impact is as deep as it is wide. 99% of students graduate High School, 98% are admitted to college, and 92 percent stay in college. Our programs have been proven to increase girls’ interest in and pursuit of STEM careers; have increased knowledge of basic financial principles such as budgeting and saving by significant percentages; and have increased girls’ mental wellbeing by equipping them with coping strategies and a supportive community. Students are also equipped to become leaders in their communities and go on to successful careers in their areas of interest, with a network of adult professionals supporting their journeys. Many students credit Girls Inc. of NYC with helping them successfully navigate the college application process, including securing scholarships when they otherwise wouldn’t have been able to afford to attend college.
A. Our focus on supporting the whole girl, which sets us apart as an organization. We also have a very dynamic office culture, one that fosters creativity and forward-thinking, which makes it a great organization to be a part of.
A. A typical day can look very different depending on the program site and what topics are being covered. In our Teen Leadership Circles, students may be meeting after school to organize a campaign to distribute supplies to homeless shelters, or may be holding a financial literacy workshop for their peers. At another school site, students might be diving into data analytics and using data to interpret social trends, or engaging in meditation and journaling practices. At our entrepreneurship camp, students might be drafting up initial versions of their business plans. Actually, none of it is “typical” and that’s what is wonderful about what we do.
A. Aerie Real to me means championing authenticity, positivity, and inclusion. Finding the boldness to be ourselves, and harnessing the strength in each of us, which is very much aligned with Girls Inc.’s motto of being strong, smart, and bold.
What does Aerie Real mean to you, Aerie fam? Let us know in the comments!
For more information about our Signature & Community Grants, check out this post at #AerieREAL Life.