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About Us Girls Inc. of Alameda County’s mission is to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Since our founding in 1958, our programs have supported the unique needs of girls. In the 1990s, we began to design and deliver programs focusing on girls within San Francisco Bay Area communities that have the least access to opportunity. Through a transitional kindergarten through early career Program Continuum, we empower youth by equipping them with the resources, skills, and access needed to build confidence, visualize and pursue their dreams, and grow into healthy, educated, and independent adults. All programs are developmentally appropriate, supporting the changing needs of youth as they grow. From literacy interventions in elementary school and exciting hands-on STEAM projects in middle school to building leadership skills, taking on paid internships, and college readiness in high school, and college persistence and early career supports, including workforce development, Girls Inc. provides the support and opportunities young people need to thrive at no cost to participants and their families. Girls Inc. of Alameda County delivers daily after-school programming in 1) 10 schools and 2) our downtown Oakland center where girls from more than 15 middle schools and 45 high schools converge. As well we deliver summer programming in two Oakland locations as well as Hayward, and an earn-and-learn workforce development program for young adults who earn wages with Girls Inc. and receive free college courses towards their AA degree. In all, Girls Inc. of Alameda County provided robust programming to nearly 1750 youth in 2023-24. About the Role The Institutional Giving Manager oversees institutional funding - corporate, foundation, government and private grants - and manages the grants consultant, ensuring the stewardship of existing funders and prospecting and cultivation of potential funders to meet revenue goals. This position reports to the Chief Development Officer and works directly with the grants consultant to identify and research grant opportunities from various sources, gather input from leadership and information from colleagues in internal departments, write proposals to funding sources, complete compliance and grant reporting, and update the organization's CRM database.  Job Summary Collaborate with the Chief Development Officer to cultivate strong relationships with new and existing institutional funding partners in support of future funding opportunities and event sponsorships.  Manage a portfolio of more than $4 million in funder prospects in all aspects of timely preparation and composition of proposals, reports, and gift acknowledgements, ensuring that internal and external deadlines are effectively met.  Oversee relationship with grants consultant and effectively allocate the workflow of proposals and reports to ensure success in meeting deadlines and annual goals.  Conduct annual grant portfolio analysis and develop a strong pipeline of grant prospects in support of quarterly and annual revenue goals and fundraising plans.  Gather data related to program progress, in collaboration with Program, Evaluation, and Finance staff, and stay aware of new developments to prepare timely, robust, and accurate proposals and reports to funders.  Proactively communicate with senior leadership and organizational stakeholders to ensure effective planning, timely submissions, and coordinate funder outreach and follow-ups.   About You Passion for the mission of Girls Inc. of Alameda County.  Bachelor’s degree preferred.  Minimum 5 years of grant proposal writing and grants management experience.  Demonstrated experience managing a fundraising portfolio of at least $2 million, including prospects.  Successful track record soliciting and securing five and six-figure institutional gifts.   Successful track record meeting annual funding goals of $1 million or higher.   Outstanding written communication and presentation skills to persuasively convey the organization’s mission to diverse constituencies.  Ability to work with and proactively communicate with internal and external stakeholders.  Familiarity with the San Francisco Bay Area philanthropic community preferred.  Knowledge of Raiser’s Edge or another donor database preferred.  Demonstrated success in a fast-paced environment where multi-tasking and priority-setting abilities are critical to success.  Self-reliant, good problem solver, results oriented.   Equal Opportunity Employment State Girls Inc. of Alameda County is committed to upholding an inclusive work community that reflects the rich diversity of our girls, their families and caregivers, the community members we serve, and our geographic region. We prioritize using an equity lens to: provide culturally responsive programming and resources to those with the least access, and value culture and difference in the office, our programs, and in the community. Through discussion, awareness, and practice, we commit to continuous improvement with the goal of every person in our community knowing the value of this commitment, embodying it, and bringing it to life. Girls Inc. of Alameda County is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants for employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, political belief, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender or gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other factor not related to ability to successfully fulfill the requirements of the position. What We Offer Compensation: Range of $75,000 - $82,000 annually Medical benefits (Employer pays standard medical plan) Voluntary Dental Voluntary Vision Retirement benefit 403b Flex spending accounts Life Insurance benefits Long term disability benefits 13 Paid Holidays Vacation time off Sick time off Employee Assistance Program Professional development/training

This month, our Simpson Center for Girls was buzzing with inspiration thanks to visits from two partners, Women in Sports & Events (WISE) and Benefit Cosmetics, who opened new worlds of possibility for our youth.    Women in Sports and Events (WISE) SF Bay Area brought together five accomplished board members—Fayne Samantha Cohen, M.A. (Bloom Energy); Erica Loh Jones (Oakland Girls Softball League); Tori Carras (UC Berkeley); Danielle Deike, M.A. (Bay Area Women’s Sports Initiative); and Becca Smith-Tan (Bay Area Host Committee)—for a dynamic career panel. Through their stories of perseverance, mentorship, and professional growth, our youth learned what it means to lead with confidence and purpose.  Benefit Cosmetics provided a behind-the-scenes look into the beauty industry, exploring careers in chemistry, product marketing, sales and more! High school participants also engaged in a hands-on brow-mapping workshop, a fun exercise where they could practice their artistry, precision, and self-expression. One student shared, “I feel so grateful for this experience. It helped me feel more in touch with my feminine side and confident in my natural beauty.”  From sports to beauty, these sessions highlighted the limitless paths available to our youth when they are supported by women who lead by example. A heartfelt thank you to WISE SF Bay Area and Benefit Cosmetics for investing your time, creativity, and wisdom in our future leaders!

About Us Girls Inc. of Alameda County’s mission is to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Since our founding in 1958, our programs have supported the unique needs of girls. In the 1990s, we began to design and deliver programs focusing on girls within San Francisco Bay Area communities that have the least access to opportunity. Through a transitional kindergarten through early career Program Continuum, we empower youth by equipping them with the resources, skills, and access needed to build confidence, visualize and pursue their dreams, and grow into healthy, educated, and independent adults. All programs are developmentally appropriate, supporting the changing needs of youth as they grow. From literacy interventions in elementary school and exciting hands-on STEAM projects in middle school to building leadership skills, taking on paid internships, and college readiness in high school, and college persistence and early career supports, including workforce development, Girls Inc. provides the support and opportunities young people need to thrive at no cost to participants and their families. Girls Inc. of Alameda County delivers daily after-school programming in 1) 10 schools and 2) our downtown Oakland center where girls from more than 15 middle schools and 45 high schools converge. As well we deliver summer programming in two Oakland locations as well as Hayward, and an earn-and-learn workforce development program for young adults who earn wages with Girls Inc. and receive free college courses towards their AA degree. In all, Girls Inc. of Alameda County provided robust programming to nearly 1750 youth in 2023-24. About the Role Girls Inc. seeks a full-time Elementary Site Coordinator with excellent skills to coordinate and deliver a model in person and/or virtual program for 120-150 elementary students in Oakland.  The delivery model will be based on recommendations and requirements from the school site leadership, school district and/or state education departments.  The coordinator will oversee a daily in person academic and enrichment program that allows students the opportunity to explore diverse, engaging, culturally and developmentally appropriate activities designed to meet physical, social and cognitive needs of all students in a gender responsive environment. Job Summary Coordinate and deliver all services and support as listed above. Work collaboratively with school day staff, program staff and volunteers to identify, recruit, and provide services to 120-150 students in grades TK-5. Hire, train, supervise, coach, and support 6-7 part-time program staff in delivering intentional program curriculum grounded in Youth Development principals, and in working successfully with girls and their parents/guardians. Assist in the implementation of Common Core standards in the academic curriculum and program. Ensure quality programs and instruction by supporting and overseeing activity and lesson plans of the Program Leaders. Support Program Manager and Literacy Specialist in the administration and collection of literacy assessments.   Work closely with Program Manager to ensure high quality community events for students, families and school personnel. Assist Program Manager in budgeting process and tracking. Ensure the safety of all students and staff by complying with and implementing the sites’ Emergency Policies and Procedures. Supervise Elementary Program volunteers. Prepare written and printed materials that support the community. Participate in staff development, consultation, training, and team meetings as well as plan and implement ongoing supervisions and meetings for Program Leaders. Support the Elementary Department to offer year-round professional development to Elementary Program Leaders and Assistants Build and strengthen school site relationships through regular, ongoing meetings with school staff and after school partners to ensure program is operating effectively and is aligned with the school day.  Attend Student Success Team (SST), Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, Coordination of Services (COST) team and other meetings that concern students enrolled in the in person or virtual program at the school site. Attend Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) and Oakland Fund for Children and Youth (OFCY) Coordinator meetings and trainings monthly and as assigned. Understand, train and implement Continuous Quality Improvement including (but not limited to): attending related meetings/trainings, coaching staff in utilizing the tools, completing program assessments, use of reporting software, creating and implementing goals and objectives. Coordinate an after-school collaborative, complying with contract requirements for programming, attendance and other areas as needed. Perform other duties as assigned in person or in virtual work environment. About You Bachelor’s degree preferred (Meet OUSD requirement of a minimum of 48 college units).  Bilingual (Spanish/English) desired. 2 years of experience working with elementary school-age youth representing diverse cultures, ethnicities, and abilities. Experience supervising staff, including the ability to coach group leaders. Ability to motivate, excite and spark curiosity and well-being in students. Ability to inspire and motivate staff as well as build and manage a team. Knowledge and experience in literacy development, youth development and after-school or educational settings required. Knowledge of and commitment to designing gender responsive programs.  Experience working with families and supporting their involvement in their student’s development and education. Knowledge and experience bringing multi-cultural curriculum to the after-school environment highly desirable. Experience and enthusiasm for supporting intensive volunteer involvement Ability to communicate effectively orally, auditory, visually, in writing and via computer with youth, families, teachers, coworkers, and volunteers A valid California Driver’s License, access to a reliable vehicle and proof of automobile liability insurance with minimum policy requirements as established by Girls Inc.  Proficiency in MS Office suite applications Department of Justice clearance based on fingerprinting submission Proof of TB test within the last four years CPR/First Aid Certification Ability to bend, lift, move up to 15 lbs. Equal Opportunity Employment State Girls Inc. of Alameda County is committed to upholding an inclusive work community that reflects the rich diversity of our girls, their families and caregivers, the community members we serve, and our geographic region. We prioritize using an equity lens to: provide culturally responsive programming and resources to those with the least access, and value culture and difference in the office, our programs, and in the community. Through discussion, awareness, and practice, we commit to continuous improvement with the goal of every person in our community knowing the value of this commitment, embodying it, and bringing it to life. Girls Inc. of Alameda County is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants for employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, political belief, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender or gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other factor not related to ability to successfully fulfill the requirements of the position. What We Offer Compensation: $69,500 - $71,000 annually Medical benefits (Employer pays standard medical plan) Voluntary Dental Voluntary Vision Retirement benefit 403b Flex spending accounts Life Insurance benefits Long term disability benefits 13 Paid Holidays Vacation time off Sick time off Employee Assistance Program Professional development/training

We proudly launched the fourth cohort of our Expanded Learning Apprenticeship, a first-of-its-kind earn-and-learn program in California designed to build pathways into the education field.   At our recent launch event, we celebrated these future educators with a day of networking, team building, and celebration. Apprentices met their peers and partners, received their backpacks loaded with school supplies, and were welcomed into a strong community of mentors and supporters.  Through this two-year partnership between Girls Inc. of Alameda County, Berkeley City College (BCC), Partnership for Children and Youth, and ECEPTS apprentices work part-time as paid Program Leaders for us, while earning college credits and professional certifications through BCC. This program continues to demonstrate what’s possible when education and workforce development come together to:  ✅ Relieve the burden of choosing between work and school  ✅ Address the workforce shortage in afterschool education  ✅ Empower community members to build careers in teaching and youth development  Congratulations to our newest cohort — we can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make in our classrooms and communities!

The results are in on our first-ever golf and rowing summer camp in partnership with First Tee Oakland  and Oakland Strokes  Rowing—a new, zero-cost offering for middle schoolers that expands their access into sports and sports-related careers!  Each day began at Tidewater Boating Center, where participants learned the basics of rowing and enjoyed the excitement of being on the water. From there, girls transitioned to Metropolitan Golf Links for golfing 101, where they learned the fundamentals of the game and worked on refining their swings. A highlight of camp was Empowerment Day, a mini mentoring event bringing together women who were both athletes and in sports-related careers, including:   Veronne Clark, Director of Community,  Golden State Valkyries (basketball)  Courtney Johnson Clendinen, Chief Programs Officer, Girls Inc. of Alameda County  Laura Geist, General Manager, Oakland Ballers (baseball)  Carla Jourdan, Head of Community Programs, Oakland Strokes (rowing)  Rebecca Martinez, Program Director, First Tee Oakland (golf)  Khali Blackman-Newton, Director of Community Engagement, Positive Coaching Alliance   Mentors shared their journeys into sports, their experiences as women in (and on) the field, and what a typical day in their careers looks like. Youth had the chance to ask questions, gain insight into the world of sports, and learn about the paths available to them as athletes and professionals.  The camp was about more than playing sports.  By participating, girls gained exposure to sports that have historically had limited access for women. They learned about future opportunities including potential college scholarships and careers in industries where women of color have long been underrepresented. And, it was a chance for them to build confidence, hone new skills, and envision themselves in spaces where they may have never seen others like them before.  “I’ve never thought about playing golf before,” reflected 6th grader Cataleya. “At camp I learned that I really like it, and I want to start playing for real!”  Investing in opportunities like this ensures that more girls have the chance to break barriers in sports and beyond. Special thanks to East Bay Community Foundation and Title Nine for supporting this incredible opportunity to inspire and empower the next generation of women in sports!

High school youth participated in a woodworking workshop facilitated by the Retention Apprenticeship Program (RAMP) and led by union carpenter Olwyn Brown and an all-women crew of skilled trades professionals. Under their guidance, students learned how to safely use tools and build their own carpentry project, choosing between a step stool, bookends, pencil holder, or phone stand.   For many of the girls, it was their first time working with power tools or engaging in a hands-on building project. Seeing women leading the space—both teaching and modeling careers in the trades—was a powerful shift in perspective.  “It was empowering to see women doing this kind of work,” one participant shared. “It made me feel like I could do it too.” The carpentry workshop is the first in a series of engagements that will continue throughout the year and will include additional exposure across multiple trades through workshops, career panels, and mentorship opportunities.  Thank you to the Soroptimist Club, Oakland for sponsoring this event! By providing early, practical exposure to these career pathways, the pilot is part of Girls Inc. of Alameda County’s broader workforce development initiative; to equip girls with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to pursue a wider range of postsecondary options that include direct entry into the workforce after high school.   This summer alone, more than 90 youth and young adults are engaging in workforce development opportunities through Girls Inc.—64 high school students in internship placements and/or participating in skilled trades projects and 27 young adults serving as apprentices in our Expanded Learning Apprenticeship Program .     You can help expand access to programs like the Women in Trades Project by investing  in us today!

An immersive summer field trip offered participants a rare look into the industries and careers that power the movement of goods from around the globe into our everyday lives. Participants had the unique opportunity to explore one of the Bay Area’s most vital economic resources: the Port of Oakland .   The day began with a tour of Central Valley Ag Group , where girls learned about the lesser-known but critical role agriculture and biomass play in the port’s activity. They then visited SSA Marine , one of the largest marine terminal operators in the world, where they witnessed massive $10 million cranes  moving containers that could hold everything from livestock feed to Costco inventory.  “I never realized how much work happens just to get products to stores,” said one participant. “Now when I see a shipping container, I’ll think of all the people behind it.”  The girls concluded their day with an executive panel featuring women leaders from all facets of the Port, who shared their diverse career paths in maritime business development, environmental science, rail safety, and public works. Experiences like this field trip give youth meaningful exposure to real-world career paths they might not otherwise encounter, sparking both curiosity and the confidence to imagine themselves in roles they may have never considered.  Thank you to WTS San Francisco Bay Area  and ACEC CA Bay Bridge Chapter  for bringing this field trip to life as part of their “Girls in Motion 2025 Summit,” aimed to introduce and empower girls to pursue careers in transportation.   Show young women that they belong in every room, every industry, and in every corner of the economy by investing today!

This summer marks 20 years of Girls Inc. of Alameda County programming at Concordia Park—a milestone that honors not just the longevity of our work, but the powerful role this East Oakland site plays in our community. For two decades, Concordia Park has been more than just a place for learning. It has been a space where youth discover their voices, take on new challenges, and build lasting connections. Located in the heart of a neighborhood many of our participants call home, the site is a welcoming, vibrant hub for growth, joy, and opportunity. Every summer, the park comes alive with full-day programming five days a week, entirely free to families. We know that during the summer, opportunities for enrichment and academic growth can be limited—especially ones that are both accessible and affordable. At Concordia, our 1st–7th grade participants take part in a dynamic mix of hands-on STEM activities, leadership building, and personal development programming. They explore new interests through curated curricula, field trips, and interactive experiences that nurture both their curiosity and confidence. The site itself is a powerful asset, featuring classroom spaces, a community garden, basketball courts, and sports fields—supporting a wide range of physical, social, and emotional learning. It also serves as a flexible home base for our Expanded Learning Apprentices, who attend morning college courses onsite, allowing our staff and programming to grow alongside the needs of our youth. In addition, Concordia Park serves as a hub for innovation and partnership. We regularly welcome companies and organizations that introduce our youth to new career pathways and real-world applications of what they learn. Recently, engineers from Arup led a hands-on activity where girls explored sustainable and cost-effective building practices—and designed their own rail systems. Scientists from Denali Therapeutics visited to teach participants about the human brain, sparking excitement around neuroscience and health science careers. As we celebrate 20 years at Concordia Park , we are reminded that this space is more than a site—it’s a cornerstone of our mission. It’s where girls build skills and resilience, where learning happens through play, exploration, and purpose. And above all, it’s a place where everyone feels welcome.   Join us in shaping the next 20 years—your investment helps ensure that Concordia Park continues to be a place of possibility, learning, and community for generations to come.  Invest Today

In honor of Girls Day, the San Francisco Giants  hosted a special pregame panel at China Basin Park, bringing together influential women leaders from across sports and youth development. Among the featured panelists was our very own CEO, Julayne Virgil, who spoke of the importance of creating pathways for girls to thrive as leaders on and off the field. She was joined by an inspiring lineup that included Miss USA, Alma Cooper, a true embodiment of what it means to be strong, smart, and bold.   (L to R) : Rocky Henley,  VP of Evolution Girls Baseball , Julayne Virgil, CEO of Girls Inc. of Alameda County , Mary Jane Storm, CEO of Girl Scouts of Northern California , Panel Moderator    (L to R): Julayne Virgil, CEO of Girls Inc. of Alameda County , Mary Jane Storm, CEO of Girl Scouts of Northern California , Alma Cooper, Miss USA , Rocky Henley, VP of Evolution Girls Baseball , Pam Baker, Founder of the Women’s Coaching Alliance , Panel Moderator,  Lindsay Bettinger, Manager of Partnerships at Athleta Alma’s story is one of determination, discipline, and drive. After graduating high school, she enrolled at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where she earned a degree in mathematical sciences. Currently, she is a Knight-Hennessy Scholar at Stanford University, pursuing a Master’s in statistics with a focus on data science.   Alma took time to connect with our Girls Inc. community, including recent graduates (and twins) Cande and Guadalupe, leaving them with words of encouragement and a strong example of breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated spaces like the military and STEM.   Sisters, Cande and Guadalupe, will also be pursuing careers in STEM, come fall: Cande will be attending Chico State to study animal science, and Guadalupe will attend San Francisco State to study political science.   (L top R:) Cande, Alma Cooper, Miss USA , Guadalupe In a special Girls Day moment, Guadalupe delivered the ceremonial first pitch ball — a proud and symbolic moment representing the bright future of our youth.  Guadalupe We’re grateful to the SF Giants for shining a spotlight on girls’ leadership and for making space to celebrate and inspire future changemakers. Together, we’re building a world where every girl knows she belongs, and that she can lead in any field, from science labs to sports! We’re grateful to the SF Giants for shining a spotlight on girls’ leadership and for making space to celebrate and inspire future changemakers. Together, we’re building a world where every girl knows she belongs, and that she can lead in any field, from science labs to sports!  Join us in supporting more girls uncover their potential by investing today!     Invest Today

We know that over the summer, there are limited opportunities for learning and enrichment—especially ones that are affordable and accessible. Without these opportunities, many young people experience summer learning loss, which can widen existing opportunity gaps. That’s why our summer programs are offered at no cost to families, ensuring more youth have access to the support and experiences they need outside of the school year.   Our summer curriculum is an intentional part of our academic, leadership and personal growth and resilience programs that foster community, encourage positive risk-taking, and expose youth to new resources and social capital through intentional curricula, field trips, internship placements and more!  You can be a part of this transformative summer. Concordia Park in East Oakland: Our Concordia Park site in East Oakland hosts our 1st-7th* grade participants during the summer and is critical to maintaining academic goals and engaging youth in STEM activities, while also exposing them to new interests through intentional curricula and field trips.  Field trips all follow similar formulas that maximize participants’ exposure and learning that include facility tours, panel discussions and Q&A opportunities with minority women leaders, key, age-appropriate learning activities and closing reflections. Fieldtrips will include Women in Trades Project ( Tradeswomen Inc. ), Carmel Partners , Benefit Cosmetics , Port of Oakland , DPR Construction , Denali Therapeutics , Bishop Wisecarver  hosted by Comerica , WTS  (Advancing Women, Advancing Transportation), and more!   Field trips often spark interest in attendees that can lead to future internship opportunities and subsequent college and career decisions.  A pivotal moment for alumna Tayo came while on a field trip to an urban planning firm with Girls Inc., where she learned people  actually design the bridges and roads she used on a daily basis. “That day changed everything,” she said. “For the first time, I saw a future I wanted—and believed I could have.” She became the first in her family to attend college, earning a B.S. in Civil Engineering from UC Davis and a master’s in transportation policy. Today, Tayo works as a Civil Engineer, helping build Bay Area infrastructure.   *This year we will also host 6th and 7th graders who are part of our All STARS program in our downtown Oakland Simpson Center for Girls, and  we will host an All STARTS cohort at our Concordia Park location. This expansion, made possible by funding and collaboration with Oakland Unified School District, has effectively doubled our 6th and 7th grade program spots, meeting the growing demand for this age group.   Golf & Rowing Summer Camp: This summer, we’re further expanding our middle school offerings through an exciting new partnership with First Tee Oakland and Oakland Strokes Rowing Club. Together, we’ll provide an additional two weeks of free, high-quality summer programming for middle schoolers—broadening their exposure to new experiences like golf and rowing and further enriching the opportunities available to this age group. Participants will start their day with Oakland Strokes at the Tidewater Boating Center for rowing and then transition to Metropolitan Golf Links Golf Course for golf lessons.   This unique opportunity is about more than just sports and physical wellness. It provides our girls with rare exposure to sports with historically limited access, opening doors to new experiences, future opportunities, and even potential college scholarships. As they build confidence and hone their skills, they’ll not only grow as athletes but also see themselves in spaces and careers where women of color have long been underrepresented.    Thank you to East Bay Community Foundation  and title nine  for supporting this opportunity!   Eureka! at Cal State East Bay: Our rising 8th and 9th grade Eureka! participants attend summer programming at Cal State East Bay , utilizing top-of-the line amenities like the campus sports and pool complexes, science labs and classrooms. Many students experience a lot of firsts here, including science experiments like dissecting fish and activities like learning to swim!  Experiencing daily life in a university setting also allows our girls to envision similar things for their own futures and can help alleviate any doubts or fears around navigating college campuses.      Health Empowerment & Leadership (HEAL): Health Empowerment & Leadership (HEAL) is for girls and their allies who are looking to be a part of the movement for opportunity and respect for all. In this summer program, teens will learn about the movement to ensure a future where everyone has access to quality healthcare- focusing on unmet health needs faced by some groups of people in our communities and country.  Teens will get the knowledge and tools to become powerful health ambassadors, learning their health rights and exploring the gaps that exist in our country that result in many community members lacking full access to health services they deserve. Teens will share and learn in a supportive space where they can create connections with each other and their facilitator, all while gaining skills that will support them for a lifetime. There are also weekly field trips on Friday.  At the end of the summer program, they will work together on a fun art or media project focused on raising awareness for others about the importance of their health. This will be in partnership with Cinequest’s "Picture the Possibilities”  initiative.   Internships: We have forty 10th and 11th grade girls with internship placements among several businesses in the community including ADBC Architecture , FORRELL | ELSESSER Structural Engineers , Girls Inc. of Alameda County ,  Martin/Martin Consulting Engineers , and more!  A special thank you to Rakuten  for hosting 20 interns this summer in roles ranging from engineering, fashion, marketing, law and more!    Internships are amazing opportunities for girls to gain real world working experience, professional development, personal growth, business connections, and social capital as they explore areas of interest, and they often factor into participants’ future college and career decisions.       Alumna, Tehray,  discovered a passion for finance through a Girls Inc. internship with BlackRock and she went on to study Economics at UC Merced. She currently works as an Analyst at BlackRock Asset Management—the very company that first inspired her college and career trajectory.  You can be part of this transformative summer.  . A generous donor has stepped up with a $15,000 matching gift challenge to make your contribution go even further.  Our match has three deadlines we need to meet:    • $5,000 by May 30th   • $5,000 by June 6th     • $5,000 by June 20th   This matching gift means every dollar you give will be matched dollar for dollar and double your impact. Will you help us meet this Friday's deadline, June 6th?  Your gift will directly support the essential programs youth count on this summer and into next school year.  Invest Today

The Bay Area's new professional women's team has partnered up with PG&E to donate $500 to two Bay Area programs focused on helping young girls and women. The utility will donate $500 for every free throw the Golden State Valkyries make this season, as part of PG&E's "Free Throws for Futures" program. One of those programs is Girls, Inc. of Alameda county, and the organization's CEO sat down with KTVU to talk about the impact of this kind of donation.

The PG&E Corporation Foundation To Donate $500 For Every Valkyries Free Throw Made This Season The Golden State Valkyries and Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) have announced a multi-year partnership that establishes PG&E as a founding partner of the Valkyries. The PG&E Corporation Foundation (PG&E Foundation) has committed a $500 donation for every free throw made by the Valkyries this season to be granted to select local community programs that enhance educational equity in the region. This collaboration centers around key community initiatives designed to uplift local youth and spotlight community champions across Northern California. “Much like the Valkyries, PG&E has a great amount of pride in the work they do in the community,” said Valkyries President Jess Smith. “This partnership goes beyond just a business deal by creating solutions to problems that directly impact people. It is so important for us to use our platforms to build healthy and inclusive communities, and these programs will do exactly that.” The partnership features two core community programs: “Free Throws for Futures” – The PG&E Foundation will donate $500 for every Valkyries free throw made during this upcoming season to Girls Inc. of Alameda County and Kode With Klossy. Girls Inc. of Alameda County connects girls from under-resourced neighborhoods in the Bay Area with access to the resources they need to reach their full potential, and Kode With Klossy creates educational opportunities for young women and gender expansive youth in STEAM programs across the globe. PG&E Foundation has donated nearly $2 million to the Golden State Community Foundation through this program over the last three seasons with the Golden State Warriors. “Power Forward” - Recognizes everyday champions in the Bay Area who areworking to make their communities a better place. One PG&E “Power Forward” honoree will be celebrated at every Valkyries home game this season. Additional community-focused programs will be unveiled during the season, and the impact of these programs will be highlighted on the Valkyries digital and social media channels all season long. “PG&E and The PG&E Corporation Foundation are thrilled to join the Valkyries, our new hometown team, as a founding partner. We’re also looking forward to partnering — both on and off the court — to uplift local organizations and spotlight community leaders that work tirelessly to make the Bay Area such a special place,” said Carla Peterman, Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs, PG&E Corporation, and Chair of the Board, The PG&E Corporation Foundation. PG&E joins a growing list of Valkyries Founding Partners, including CarMax, JPMorgan Chase, Kaiser Permanente, Sephora, and United Airlines. PG&E's support and charitable contributions is funded by PG&E shareholders and not customers. About The Golden State Community Foundation The Golden State Community Foundation supports education and youth development to promote thriving students, schools and communities across the Bay Area via grantmaking, refurbished basketball courts, and ticket donations. Through Generation Thrive, a first-of-its-kind non-profit hub created in partnership with Kaiser Permanente, the Foundation supports the effectiveness of local nonprofits and schools through programming for educators. Since its inception in 2012, the Golden State Community Foundation has delivered more than $47 million in impact to support education and youth development in the Bay Area. To learn more, visit goldenstate.com/foundation. About PG&E Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE: PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than sixteen million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news About The PG&E Corporation Foundation The PG&E Corporation Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, separate from PG&E and sponsored by PG&E Corporation.

This #FinancialLiteracyMonth, our high schoolers dove into the world of banking and credit—learning how to make smart money moves now to build a strong financial future. From understanding credit scores to managing accounts, they asked amazing questions, shared their goals, and left feeling more confident about handling their own finances. Highlights of what they learned: ✅ What credit scores actually mean—and how to build and protect them ✅ How to spot credit fraud and fix errors on credit reports ✅ The different types of financial institutions and bank accounts ✅ How to safely manage money, especially when banking online Workshops like these are powerful—especially when financial literacy isn’t always taught in schools. With the right tools, our girls can be equipped to navigate the complexities of personal finance and achieve overall financial security and independence. Big thanks to Danette Winkler, VP of Commercial Banking and our Partner, Comerica Bank , for empowering our girls with essential financial knowledge!

Thank you to our Board Members, Sponsors, Investors, Women of Impact, and our entire community who joined in celebrating our Scholars at our 2025 Strong, Smart & Bold Luncheon, Equipped for Success! With your sponsorships, ticket purchases, day-of and subsequent investments, we raised $550,000+ to ensure youth in Alameda County continue to have access to transformational programming. During the luncheon, we heard from three Teen Scholars whose stories are a testament to our ability to make real impact when we come together as a community. Through Girls Inc. of Alameda County, Padme gained the confidence to use her voice, discovered a passion for science and working with children, and will pursue her dream of becoming a pediatrician at Trinity University in San Antonio. Zarahana found sisterhood, support, and the courage to ask for help and is now heading to UCLA to pursue an Art major with purpose and clarity. Through a Girls Inc. internship, Lynelle uncovered her entrepreneurial spirit and her desire to help others, designing a healthcare app and founding a wellness program at her school. She will start her postsecondary journey at a community college and plans to transfer to a four-year university with a strong psychology program. Thank you so much for your generosity and your commitment to inspiring all girls to be strong, smart & bold. Special thanks to our generous sponsors and to our event emcee, Velena Jones! Didn’t get a chance to give at the event? You can show your support for participants like Padme, Zarahana and Lynelle by investing in the programs, resources and services that equip our youth for success.

Our youth stepped into the world of design and creativity during an inspiring visit to CRI, San Francisco , a women-owned office furniture and design consultancy! The day kicked off with a fun scavenger hunt exploring “A Day in the Life of a Truck Dispatcher,” giving the girls a behind-the-scenes look at the operations side of the business. Then, they heard from incredible women leaders across sales, marketing, business development, and creative solutions—who shared their career journeys and opened our girls’ eyes to new possibilities in the industry. The highlight? A hands-on design challenge where our youth selected real fabrics, finishes, and furniture to bring their dream workspaces to life—before confidently presenting their vision boards to the group like true professionals! Thank you to Jennifer Burton, Brooke Stickney, and the entire team at CRI San Francisco, for creating such a dynamic, empowering experience. You helped our girls dream big, think creatively, and see what’s possible when women lead the way.

We’re igniting confidence, building skills, and opening doors in after school programming — 36 weeks a year, with young people attending 70+ schools, in 5+ cities, and 15 program sites. None of it happens without our passionate, hard-working staff who bring this mission to life every single day — in every space, every program, and every moment with our youth. They are the spark behind the courage, the confidence, and the dreams our girls are chasing.

Senior participant, Nia, moderated a panel discussion with five dynamic professionals and members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. , who generously shared their journeys, insights, and advice as Black women leading in their industries. The conversation explored college trajectories, career growth, overcoming obstacles, balancing work and life, and thriving with purpose. Thank you to our panelists: Alexis Stuckey ACSW, PPSC – Protective Services Worker, City and County of San Francisco Amber Hunter – Payment Integrity Manager, UCSF Health Azariah C. – Educator & Patent Agent, Freedom Soul Media Education Initiatives Dorian Ball – Family Medicine Resident Physician, Kaiser Permanente Jazmyn Hammons – Manager, Box Office, Golden State Warriors We're grateful to you for sharing with our youth and modeling what leadership, resilience, and community impact truly look like.

Every spring, we host our annual College Shower to celebrate a powerful milestone—our College Access Now (CAN!) seniors graduating high school and heading off to post-secondary education. The majority are the first in their families to reach this moment, and their journeys are nothing short of inspiring.   “Being in this program has helped me become who I am today. The girl that was quiet, reserved—looking at who I am now, and who I am becoming—I wouldn’t have even known that’s me,” reflects senior, Lynelle.   As part of our College Shower celebration, we send each graduate off with a backpack full of college essentials—items that help them start strong and feel supported as they take this next big step.  We invite you to be a part of this joyful tradition by purchasing an item from our Amazon Wish List.  From journals and toiletries to tech supplies and dorm room basics, every gift helps our students feel seen, celebrated, and prepared.  As a leading organization dedicated to advancing educational access and opportunity for girls and their allies, Girls Inc. of Alameda County is committed to providing sustained, high-quality programming that makes moments like these possible. Financial support from our community is essential to continue delivering these life-changing experiences.  We truly cannot do it without you.  Thank you for believing in the potential of our youth and for walking beside them on this exciting journey.  2024 College Shower Shop the list  and make an instantaneous difference for our seniors!  Hear directly from three of our graduating seniors and learn more about our College Access Now! Program!

Alumnae and staff had an incredible time at the East Bay Women’s Conference , a day dedicated to learning, networking, professional development, and inspiration! From thought-provoking keynote speakers to impactful breakout sessions, this conference was an opportunity to connect with and learn from women leaders across industries. Thank you to our partner, Comerica Bank , for providing the tickets and making this empowering experience possible!

Meet our powerhouse 2025 Strong, Smart & Bold Teen Scholars—Lynelle, Padme, and Zarahana! These seniors are ready to take the stage at this year’s Strong, Smart & Bold Luncheon: Equipped for Success, sharing their journeys, big dreams, and what it means to own their future. Get ready to be inspired! Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe! Join us as a sponsor of the Strong, Smart & Bold Luncheon and be a champion for the next generation of leaders! Your support fuels life-changing programs that equip girls with the tools, resources, and confidence to pursue their dreams. Together, we can ensure every girl is prepared to step boldly into her future. Become a sponsor or purchase tickets today! When Friday, April 25, 2025 11:30 AM – 1:00PM Where Oakland Scottish Rite Center 1547 Lakeside Dr., Oakland, CA 94612

We celebrated National Poetry month by spotlighting our incredible senior students—Astrid, Jamya, Jocelyn, Lynelle, Lynette, Mareliz and Padme—who are now published poets in Simpsonistas: Tales from the New Literary Project, Vol. 6 ! Astrid: “Untitled,” pg. 143 Jamya: “Love,” pg. 173 Jocelyn: “My Mom.” pgs. 171-172 Lynelle: “Coach’s Beach,” 157-158 Lynette: “Untitled,” 151-153 Mareliz: “Fun Little Game,” pgs. 167-168 Padme: “Mama,” pgs. 169-170 The Simpsonistas volumes are published annually and distributed nationally by the New Literary Project , and they feature teenagers published for the first time alongside distinguished award-winning authors. The New Literary Project is committed to uplifting voices through free creative writing workshops for high-school-age youth. These workshops are led by Simpson Fellows—graduate students from UC Berkeley’s Department of English—and supported by longtime Girls Inc. of Alameda County investor, Sharon Simpson. Congratulations to our students on being published, and for sharing their voices! Show your support for The New Literary Project and our young authors by purchasing your own copy, here.

West Oakland Middle School students put their engineering, architecture, and project management skills to the test with the support of DPR Construction . Using popsicle sticks, pipe cleaners, and other materials, they worked in teams to design and build helipads strong enough to support a drone helicopter landing! Each participant took on a real-world role—Architect, Project Manager, Superintendent, or Builder—learning about the responsibilities, salaries, and education paths associated with each position. Through collaboration and problem-solving, the teams successfully completed their structures, ensuring smooth landings across the board! Take a look! A huge thank you to DPR Construction for sharing their time, expertise, and insights into the world of construction! “As a woman working in the construction industry, I enjoy sharing with the girls about a career path in this industry that they would otherwise not consider. I want them to see themselves in whatever they want to be.” – Paz Arroyo, Ph.D., DPR Construction in hands-on learning experiences that empower girls to step into leadership roles in STEAM fields like construction and engineering!

Exciting news! NBC Bay Area’s Velena Jones is returning as the emcee for our 2025 Strong, Smart & Bold Luncheon, Equipped for Success. Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe! Velena’s dedication to storytelling and amplifying community voices makes her the perfect host for this inspiring event. Join us as we celebrate the power and potential of girls in our community! Your support fuels life-changing programs that equip our youth with the tools, resources, and confidence to pursue their dreams. Together, we can ensure every girl is prepared to step boldly into her future. Become a sponsor or purchase tickets today ! When: Friday, April 25th, 11:30am – 1:00pm Location: Oakland Scottish Rite Center

Future Leaders is a unique opportunity that connects our youth with top women professionals in sports, business and entertainment, providing career insights, skill-building, and invaluable mentorship. For seven years in a row, this dynamic experience has been powered by a one-of-a-kind partnership with Rakuten and the Golden State Warriors ! Each Girls Inc. participant was paired with a mentor from Rakuten and a mentor from the Warriors, who guided them throughout the experience. After getting more acquainted with their mentors, the girls gathered for a powerful, all-women panel led by the incredible Zena Keita, on-air personality and podcast host. The panel featured Ay’Anna Moody, Executive Director for the Warriors Community Foundation , Lauren N. Peebles, Senior Counsel at the University of California, and Angela Tsay, CEO and Creative Director of Oaklandish . Their stories showed our girls that women who look like them thrive in leadership roles across industries. Panelists L to R: Zena Keita, on-air personality and podcast host, Lauren N. Peebles, Senior Counsel at the University of California, Ay’Anna Moody, Executive Director for the Warriors Community Foundation, and Angela Tsay, CEO and Creative Director of Oaklandish. The panel inspired thought-provoking discussions, and when it was time for Q&A, our girls embraced the challenge, stepping up to share their own perspectives and questions—a big moment of positive risk-taking and leadership in action! “I learned how to overcome obstacles as a woman in the workplace, and I learned to always follow your dreams,” commented Girls Inc. of Alameda County participant, Wanye. The afternoon featured a sunny terrace lunch, followed by a surprise shopping spree at Nordstrom. With guidance from their mentors, they explored styles that balanced confidence, professionalism, and self-expression—many stepping outside their fashion comfort zones in the best way possible! The next day, our Future Leaders crossed the Bay Bridge to the Chase Center, dressed for success in their new business attire. First stop: professional headshots—perfect for college applications and future careers—followed by some fun group photos with friends. Then, it was time to dive into career shadowing, getting a behind-the-scenes look at game day operations, from guest services to ticketing to VIP fan experiences. Just before tip-off, Girls Inc. of Alameda County was given a special shoutout, and our girls took center court to be honored as the next generation of leaders! As the grand finale, the girls took in the Warriors vs. Pistons game from the Rakuten suite, but not before a huge moment of recognition. Participant Allison summed up her experience in stating, “It’s been very inspirational and like it helps me build a foundation for me in the future and seek a future I haven’t thought about before.” This year, the excitement doesn’t stop here! For the first time, Future Leaders is expanding beyond the two-day experience to include mentorship touchpoints and career-building opportunities throughout the year. This means our girls will continue learning from and connecting with their mentors, gaining even more insight, guidance, and inspiration as they prepare for their futures. A massive thank you to Rakuten, the Golden State Warriors, and everyone who made this experience possible. For seven years, Future Leaders has been opening doors, building confidence, and shaping bright futures—and with this exciting new expansion, we can’t wait to see what’s next! Invest in her future—help provide mentorship, career opportunities, and the confidence to lead!

Mini Mentoring To prepare for summer internship placements, our 9th and 10th-graders participated in Mini Mentoring, one-on-one sessions with professional women in fields from real estate to cosmetics to law and architecture. These intimate conversations provided an inviting space where youth and their mentors could get candid about education, career trajectories, and valuable life lessons. Mock Interviews Also in preparation for upcoming internship placements, Mock Interviews gave 9th and 10th graders the chance to practice their interview skills in a supportive environment. From firm handshakes to answering tough questions with poise, students participated in multiple rounds of interviews and received constructive feedback from professionals. Hear from 9th grader, Noor, about her experience. Career Panel Our high schoolers had the unique opportunity to hear from a panel of accomplished women in STEM, law, and medicine, including: Melanie Buziak – Mechanical Engineer, ERG Aerospace Anya Ku – Neighborhood Law Corps Attorney, Oakland City Attorney’s Office Dr. Jennifer A. Miller – Pediatrician, East Bay Pediatrics Esther Chang – Trial Litigator, The Norton Law Firm Dr. Ursula Boynton – Chief Medical Executive, Alta Bates Summit Medical Center After sharing their career journeys, challenges, and triumphs, the panelists opened the floor to students for an engaging Q&A session. The incredible women across these experiences didn’t just highlight their successes—they shared the obstacles they overcame, from self-doubt to workplace bias and balancing career with personal life. These honest conversations provided students with a clearer, more authentic view of what it takes to succeed. For many, this was their first real exposure to these fields. Learning about different career paths helps demystify complex professions by providing actionable ways to achieving goals. Through mentorship, practice, and real-world insights, our students are now better equipped to take the next steps toward their futures. Huge thanks to our dedicated volunteers for making this possible and to our girls for showing up with curiosity and determination!