September is National Literacy Month, a time to celebrate the power of reading and the opportunities that strong literacy skills can unlock. We know that reading at grade level is key to a student's future success. That’s why literacy has been a cornerstone of our elementary school programming for decades, giving our youngest learners the foundational skills and confidence they need to thrive in school and beyond. Through daily afterschool literacy instruction in Oakland schools, trained staff and community volunteers engage students in activities catered to their individual skill level, including: This consistent, engaging approach helps young readers strengthen skills like phonics, word recognition, fluency, and comprehension while developing confidence and a love of reading. After years of implementing, evaluating, and refining this approach, Girls Inc. of Alameda County has become a literacy leader locally and in the wider Girls Inc. network. Our organization first began sharing our K–3 literacy curriculum with Girls Inc. affiliates across the country in 2009. And as we continue strengthening our approach, we share what we learn with fellow affiliates, along with updated curriculum, tools, and practices shaped by our work with young readers in Alameda County. Over the past two months, that work continued, with our most recent training sessions focused on our 4th- and 5th-grade literacy curriculum. Our Literacy Team traveled to Indianapolis for two educational sessions, training 27 Girls Inc. affiliates on curriculum, strategies and lessons developed through our work in Alameda County. This National Literacy Month, we’re proud to celebrate young readers in our own community and the educators and literacy leaders helping strengthen literacy programming across the country. Your support helps us continue investing in proven literacy programming and sharing what we learn with others to expand its impact.

What does coding have to do with basketball? As our high school participants are discovering, quite a lot! This fall, Girls Inc. of Alameda County high schoolers are participating in Code the Game: Tech Exposure & Access Through Mentorship (TEAM), a six-week program that uses basketball to introduce 10th–12th graders to coding, data, and technology. Code the Game provides our students an opportunity to expand on foundational coding skills, forged during our middle school Build IT curriculum, and see how they can be applied in a real-world setting. Throughout the program, participants learn coding fundamentals, explore sports data and analytics, and use real basketball statistics to examine player performance and practice their coding skills. Along the way, they see firsthand how technology intersects with an industry they already know and enjoy, and the range of careers that can grow from those skills and interests. On Friday, that learning transitioned to Ballhalla when participants attended a Golden State Valkyries game. Our students had the opportunity to look behind the scenes and learn about the technology behind the game-day experience. Rakuten’s funding to TEAM made this all-girls Code the Game cohort possible. We’re grateful to our longtime partner Rakuten for supporting this opportunity for our students and to TEAM for delivering the six-week program. Your support helps us create more opportunities for young people to build STEAM skills and explore where those skills can take them.

This summer, we excitedly launched our new Bold Futures Mentorship Program, an important expansion of our commitment to supporting young people beyond high school and into college and early career. Bold Futures connects our alumnae ages 18–24 with professional mentors who can offer guidance as they explore careers, set goals, develop skills, and navigate this next stage of their lives. We know that while the needs of our young people change after high school, the value of trusted relationships, professional networks, and a supportive community does not. Through June 2027, mentor-mentee pairs will meet regularly and participate in guided activities focused on personal and professional growth. In August, we welcomed our inaugural group of mentors and mentees to the Simpson Center for Girls for an orientation to learn about the year ahead, build community, and begin developing the relationships at the heart of the program. Bold Futures is made possible with support from our longtime partner Rakuten and builds on nearly a decade of partnership rooted in mentorship and career exposure. Now in its ninth year, our Future Leaders program with Rakuten and the Golden State Warriors has connected our youth with professionals across a range of industries, providing career insights, skill-building, and invaluable mentorship. Bold Futures carries that shared commitment forward into a new stage of our alumnae’s lives. We are proud to deepen our continuum in this way and reinforce an important message to our alumnae: their connection to Girls Inc. of Alameda County, and our investment in their futures, does not end when they graduate from high school.

Girls Inc. of Alameda County attended the 2026 WTS (Women's Transportation Seminar) Capital Summit, a week-long leadership and career exploration experience hosted at the University of Maryland through the WTS Foundation's Transportation YOU initiative. Thanks to our partners at WTS San Francisco Bay Area, Girls Inc. of Alameda County joined this initiative where youth and mentors from across the country gathered to explore careers in transportation, engineering, and infrastructure through hands-on learning, industry tours, and leadership development. Experiences like the WTS Capital Summit are an important part of our workforce development continuum that aims to prepare youth for whatever path they choose after high school. High school attendee, Naysa, reflected on what the experience meant to her: "One of my favorite parts of the week was meeting other students and mentors from all over. Even though we all came from different places, we learned from each other and became friends through team challenges and activities." Throughout the week, participants challenged themselves on a high ropes course, toured the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority's Integrated Command and Communications Center, visited the U.S. Capitol, explored the B&P Tunnel Replacement construction project, met engineers and transportation professionals, and participated in engineering design challenges and workshops. Each experience offered a firsthand look at the many career pathways that are shaping the future of our communities. Naysa also shared how the summit expanded her understanding of career possibilities: "Before this trip, I didn't realize how many different careers there are in transportation and infrastructure. Touring active projects, meeting engineers, and seeing how people work together to solve real problems showed me just how many opportunities are out there." From career exploration and industry field trips to internships, apprenticeships, mentorship, and college and career readiness, we intentionally connect girls with professionals and real-world experiences that help them discover new possibilities and prepare for successful futures. We are deeply grateful to WTS San Francisco Bay Area for making this opportunity possible and for helping our participants see themselves in industries where women continue to be underrepresented. Help open doors to career exploration, mentorship, and workforce development experiences that empower more girls to discover their potential. Make your gift today.

Hi! My name is Mary, and I’m a Girls Inc. of Alameda County participant going into 10th grade. This summer, a group of Girls Inc. of Alameda County high schoolers visited the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) to learn about medical school and explore careers in healthcare. When we arrived, we were greeted by two medical students who shared what it's really like to pursue a career in medicine. They talked about their day-to-day lives, their college journeys, and the experiences that helped them get where they are today. I connected with one mentor who shared how receiving mentorship helped him navigate college as a first-generation student. Since his parents hadn't attended college, they weren't able to guide him, so hearing how mentorship helped him succeed really resonated with me. It showed me the value of having my Girls Inc. of Alameda County community offer support, encouragement, and advice along the way. One of my favorite parts of the day was exploring real human organs—including the liver, lungs, and heart—and getting to see an ultrasound machine in action! Every station was so interesting, and I could ask questions and learn directly from the medical school students. By the end of the day, I felt inspired about my future and excited about continuing my education. This summer, I also interned with Girls Inc. of Alameda County's Development team. I helped draft social media content about the different programs going on this summer, and I learned about our donor database and the many ways our community supports our programs. It was awesome to experience opportunities like going to UCSF, while also learning more about the ins and outs of a nonprofit during my internship. Thank you for supporting opportunities for more girls like me!

Our high school participants attended the Girls in Motion Summit at the Salesforce Transit Center, where they explored careers in transportation, engineering, and infrastructure. Workforce development begins long before a first job or internship. Experiences like the Girls in Motion Summit expose participants to careers they may never have considered, connect them with accomplished professionals, and help them begin building the skills, confidence, and social capital needed to thrive in tomorrow's workforce. Check out this reel created by Girls Inc. of Alameda County participant and summer intern, Lydia, to see behind-the-scenes of this exciting field trip! The day began with participants traveling together by BART to San Francisco before being welcomed to one of the region's most innovative transportation hubs. During the executive panel discussion, participants heard from Michelle Bouchard, CEO of Caltrain, Tilly Chang, Executive Director of the San Francisco County Transportation Authority, and leaders from the Transbay Joint Powers Authority, who shared their career journeys, the challenges they have overcome, and the importance of increasing representation for women in STEM and infrastructure careers. The discussion was moderated by Michele DiFrancia of Parsons Corporation, encouraging participants to think beyond traditional career paths and consider the many opportunities available in these growing fields. After the panel, participants explored the Salesforce Transit Center through a series of interactive activities. They worked together during a scavenger hunt through Salesforce Park, learning about the innovative design and engineering behind the facility. They also toured areas rarely open to the public, including the future Caltrain trainbox beneath the station and the operations areas where they learned how buses travel directly from the Bay Bridge into the terminal without entering city streets. One of the day's most memorable discoveries was seeing how sensors in the bus terminal activate the fountains in the park above each time a bus passes beneath. We are so grateful to the summit organizers: ACEC Bay Bridge Chapter, WTS San Francisco Bay Area Chapter, and the Transbay Joint Powers Authority (TJPA). Help prepare the next generation of women leaders by making career pathways more visible and accessible with a gift today.

May 20th, 2026 We celebrated 31 graduating seniors at our annual College Shower — a joyful tradition recognizing participants in our College Access Now! (CAN!) Program as they prepare for their next chapter after high school. The College Shower serves as both a celebration and a community sendoff. Seniors gathered alongside their families, mentors, staff, and supporters to reflect on their journeys and celebrate all that lies ahead. Each participant received a backpack filled with college and dorm essentials to help them begin this transition feeling prepared, supported, and seen. During the celebration, longtime participant, Darlyn, reflected on the depth of impact Girls Inc. of Alameda County’s programs have had on her throughout her time with us: “The programs aren’t just about the lessons in the curriculum; they helped shape me into who I am today. They taught me to be a leader, to be responsible, to manage my time well, to be resourceful, and most importantly, to have integrity and accountability.” Darlyn will be attending San Francisco State University in the Fall Her words captured the heart of what our programs are designed to do: to equip girls with the confidence, tools, and resources to achieve their dreams of college, career, and leadership. All graduating seniors honored at the event completed Girls Inc. of Alameda County’s College Access Now! (CAN!) Program, an intensive college-prep and career readiness initiative that provides hands-on support with college applications, FAFSA and financial aid navigation, scholarship searches, essay writing, campus tours, mentorship, and post-secondary planning. This year marks the 12th consecutive year that one hundred percent of our CAN! participants have been accepted to post-secondary institutions, and many will be the first in their families to take this next step. At Girls Inc. of Alameda County, however, we believe there is no one-size-fits-all pathway to success. While 92% of our graduates will attend college this fall, others are pursuing different opportunities, including direct entry into the workforce. Through our programming, we strive to ensure every participant is equipped with the confidence, knowledge, and support to pursue the path that is right for them. Following the event, CEO, Julayne Virgil, and graduating senior, Amira, joined KTVU to talk about the impact of our programs, the annual College Shower, and College Access Now! (CAN!) Program. **Special thanks to our Partners who made this year’s celebration even more meaningful. Each senior received a laptop donated by DPR Construction, essentials from our Amazon Wishlist purchased by the JD Finish Line Foundation, and hygiene and self-care kits donated by Sephora. Your support helps make moments like these possible, empowering young people with the confidence, resources, and opportunities to pursue whatever future is right for them.

June 3, 2026 My name is Cataleyah, and I’m headed to 6th grade. I’ve been coming to Girls Inc. of Alameda County’s summer camp at Concordia Park since I was in kindergarten, and I want to tell you why this program means so much to me. When I first came to Concordia Park, I was really shy and quiet because I didn’t know anybody. On my very first day, I got paired up with another girl named Gia for a “pair and share” activity. She was nice to me, and that’s when I knew she was going to be my best friend. We don’t even go to the same school, but girls from a bunch of different schools can come to Concordia. I think that’s really special because if it wasn’t for this summer program, we wouldn’t have met! (L) Cataleyah (R) Gia Concordia Park Summer '25 Now, six years later, we are still best friends. She knows all of my secrets and I know all of hers! I’ve been coming to Concordia Park for so long that it really feels like a second home to me. I love all the activities we get to do, like sports, science projects, and all the different field trips. We get to go somewhere new every week to places like Simpson Strong-Tie, where they taught us to build a white board, and the Chabot Science Center, where we got to learn all about outer space. Visitors also come to our class. My favorite group was probably Denali Therapeutics because they taught us about our brains and showed us animal brains under the microscope. One of my favorite things about Concordia is how much we get to try new things. Last summer, I went rowing and golfing for the first time ever. The rowing instructors told me I was really good at it, and it made me think that maybe one day I could go professional. Before Girls Inc. of Alameda County, I never would have imagined trying something like that. All the different stuff we get to do is fun, so it doesn’t feel like school during the summer. I also love that Concordia Park is an all-girls program. It makes it easier to open up and make friends and be yourself. Now when I see girls who are shy like I used to be, I try to help them feel included too. I think programs like this are really important because not every family can pay for summer camps. Girls Inc. of Alameda’s camp at Concordia Park is completely free, so more girls like me get to come learn and make friends. Thank you for supporting Girls Inc. of Alameda County programs. You may be helping another girl meet her best friend and not even know it! Thanks for reading, Rising 6th Grader & Girls Inc. of Alameda County Participant **Written by Cataleyah, edited by Mom**

May 24th, 2026 CEO, Julayne Virgil, and graduating participant, Amira, joined KTVU to talk about the impact of Girls Inc. of Alameda County, our annual College Shower, and our College Access Now! (CAN!) Program. In the interview, Amira shared how we have helped shape her confidence and support her journey toward higher education. This fall, she will attend California Polytechnic State University, and we couldn’t be more proud! ❤️ For 12 consecutive years, 100% of our graduating seniors have graduated high school and been accepted into post-secondary education. Through our College Access Now! Program, participants receive hands-on support with college applications, financial aid, scholarships, career exploration, and more—helping girls build bright futures with confidence and support behind them. Thank you to KTVU for helping share their story.

May 14th, 2026 We are proud to celebrate an inspiring group of young leaders from our College Access Now! (CAN!) Program who have earned prestigious scholarships in recognition of both their academic achievements and the powerful personal stories reflected in each of their applications. Please join us in congratulating Violet, recipient of the Kristi Yamaguchi Scholarship, a $10,000 award through Girls Inc. of Alameda County, supporting her continued educational journey. We are also thrilled to celebrate Allison, who received a $10,000 award through Girls Inc. National. Each year, only 50 girls across all Girls Inc. affiliates in the United States and Canada receive a scholarship through Girls Inc. National, making this an extraordinary achievement. In addition, we proudly celebrate Amira, Darlyn, Janice, and Annaliese, who each received a $5,000 Sharon H. Simpson scholarship, in support of their continued education. The scholarships represent an investment in the dreams and potential of young women who have worked tirelessly in pursuit of their college and career goals. Through our College Access Now! (CAN!) Program, students receive intensive support navigating the college process, including financial aid and FAFSA guidance, scholarship applications, college major exploration, campus tours, mentorship, and career readiness preparation. A Girls Inc. of Alameda County participant since seventh grade, Violet reflected on her journey as a speaker at our recent Strong, Smart & Bold Gala: “Girls Inc. [of Alameda County] gave me more than just a program, but an opportunity to expand my perspective on what it means to be a leader, a learner, and a community member. They have helped me evolve my perspective, voice, and confidence.” Violet Our scholars truly embody what it means to be strong, smart, and bold, and we are honored to support them as they take their next steps. Join us in creating more opportunities for young women like Amira, Allison, Annaliese, Darlyn, Janice and Violet.

May 14th, 2026 Join us in congratulating our second cohort of Expanded Learning Apprentices on their recent graduation! Graduates earned Certificates of Proficiency in Education: School Readiness, while several Apprentices also completed additional milestones including - Certificates of Proficiency in Education: Teacher’s Aide and Associate Degrees in Child Development and Teacher Preparation. As the first-of-its-kind program in California’s Expanded Learning and Afterschool field, this innovative two-year apprenticeship model allows participants to earn college credits while simultaneously joining the workforce as part-time program leaders in youth development roles. Apprentices receive paid hands-on experience and professional development training through Girls Inc. of Alameda County while also receiving focused support in free college courses through Berkeley City College, with the opportunity to earn up to 48 transferable college units. The program was created to address critical challenges facing both young adults and the expanded learning workforce by: Relieving the burden of choosing between work and higher education Creating pathways into meaningful careers in youth development and education Increasing representation of educators who reflect the lived experiences of the youth they serve Investing in leaders from less-resourced communities who then reinvest their skills back into those communities Providing wraparound support systems that recognize challenges such as housing instability, childcare, and food insecurity During the celebration, graduate Sanae Hendrix reflected on her journey from afterschool program participant to young educator and mentor. “When I was a young girl, I attended an afterschool program where I built strong connections with my program leaders that I still have to this day,” Sanae shared. “That experience showed me the importance of building connections with youth and guides how I support students in my role today.” After working in a job where she felt there was limited opportunity for growth, Sanae discovered Girls Inc. of Alameda County’s Apprenticeship program and took a leap of faith. “Being able to apply what I’m learning now is guiding me toward figuring out who I want to become,” she said. “What I do know is that whatever I’m going to do in this world, I’m going to continue to make a positive impact on young people’s lives.” Now graduating with her Associate Degree in Child Development, her Associate Degree for Transfer (an AAT makes the student eligible to transfer to a 4-year university), and her Teacher’s Aide certification, Sanae represents the transformative potential of creating accessible pathways into education careers for young people in our communities. We are incredibly proud of this cohort and grateful to the partners, supporters, and educators who continue investing in the future of youth development and education leadership in Alameda County. Your support makes workforce development initiatives like the Expanded Learning Apprenticeship possible. Invest today to help more young leaders earn, learn, and create lasting impact in their communities.

April 30th, 2026 At our 2026 Strong, Smart & Bold Gala, our community came together to raise $742,187 in support of girls across Alameda County—including $253,100 raised in the room, more than doubling the evening's $125,000 match. These funds represent expanded opportunities, stronger support systems, and brighter futures for the 1,600+ girls and young women we serve each year. Our CEO, Julayne Virgil, reminded us what it means to invest in girls not just in a moment, but across a lifetime. Julayne Virgil, CEO For the first time ever, one of our Expanded Learning Apprentices took the stage, sharing her experience in this new pathway that allows her to earn, learn, and lead at the same time. This May, Sanae will graduate with her AA in Child Development and her Teacher’s Aide certification. Sanae, Expanded Learning Apprentice And we were moved by 12th grader, Violet, whose journey through Girls Inc. of Alameda County speaks to the confidence and community our programs are designed to foster. Violet plans to begin at community college and transfer to pursue a double major in creative writing and political science. Violet, 12th Grade Participant We were also proud to honor two extraordinary leaders—Ay'Anna Moody, Executive Director of the Golden State Community Foundation, and Jess Smith, President of the Golden State Valkyries—whose leadership, partnership and support continue to open doors and expand what’s possible for the girls we serve. (L) Ay'Anna Moody, Executive Director, Golden State Community Foundation (R) Jess Smith, President, Golden State Valkyries From the energy of our fund-a-future paddle raise to the excitement of the raffle and the pride behind our limited-edition t-shirts, designed by high school participant Nicole Mei, every part of the evening reflected a shared belief: that when we invest in girls, we invest in a brighter future. We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, our Board of Directors, our Event Committee, and our entire community, who helped bring this evening to life. If you’d like to be part of the momentum coming out of this incredible evening, there’s still time to make your impact: Explore the gallery!

We are proud to announce this year’s 2026 Strong, Smart & Bold Gala Honorees—Ay’Anna Moody, Executive Director of the Golden State Community Foundation, and Jess Smith, President of the Golden State Valkyries—two extraordinary leaders whose work across philanthropy and professional sports is shaping opportunity for girls and young women across the Bay Area. Ay’Anna Moody has been a champion of Girls Inc. of Alameda County, helping strengthen the organization’s partnership with the Golden State Warriors and expand new opportunities through collaboration with the Golden State Valkyries. Over the past decade, the Golden State Community Foundation has granted more than $600,000 to support our program continuum. In addition to financial support, this partnership has created numerous experiences for participants, including mentorship opportunities, career exposure, and behind-the-scenes access to professional sports careers and environments. Jess Smith has played a pivotal role in launching the Valkyries during a historic moment for women’s sports, building a franchise that is already making a powerful impact across the Bay Area. In the team’s first season, the Valkyries partnered with Girls Inc. of Alameda County through initiatives such as Free Throws for Futures, while also creating meaningful engagement opportunities for youth, including mentorship experiences and special events that connect girls with women leaders in sports and beyond.  Together, their work reflects a shared commitment to investing in girls, strengthening communities, and ensuring the next generation of young women can see themselves in positions of leadership and impact.  Don’t miss your chance to hear directly from our honorees as they take the stage during the event, and join us in celebrating their leadership and the girls whose futures they are inspiring. Click here for event details.

March 2026 We are sharing an important clarification regarding recent news coverage involving our neighboring affiliate, Girls Inc. of Island City (headquartered in Alameda). While we recognize that this is a difficult time for a fellow youth-serving organization, it is important to clarify that this situation does not involve Girls Inc. of Alameda County. Although we are both affiliates of the Girls Inc. national network, our organization is a separate nonprofit 501(c)(3) with its own leadership and financial stewardship. We are headquartered in Oakland and serve youth across Alameda County and other parts of the East Bay, and we do not operate programs in the City of Alameda. Confusion can sometimes arise due to similarities in organizational names and geographies, and we are actively working to ensure that accurate distinctions are communicated. Girls Inc. of Alameda County remains committed to the highest standards of financial stewardship, transparency, and accountability. Our organization maintains strong financial controls by distributing financial responsibilities across multiple individuals and implementing clear, controlled disbursement processes. Financial performance is reviewed monthly by leadership and the Board Finance Committee, and we undergo an annual independent audit conducted by a third party. These practices are guided by well-documented policies and procedures that ensure transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship. We deeply value the trust you place in our work and in the young people we serve.

We were thrilled to welcome Kate Martin and Kaitlyn Chen of the WNBA’s Golden State Valkyries to our downtown Oakland headquarters for a special afternoon with our girls. From a hands-on nutritious cooking activity with middle schoolers to an open and inspiring Q&A with middle and high school students, Kate and Kaitlyn shared powerful insights on confidence, resilience, and what it takes to succeed—on and off the court. The visit kicked off with a hands-on nutritious cooking activity alongside our middle school participants, creating space to talk about wellness, balance, and the importance of fueling your body. For many of our girls, it was a unique opportunity to connect healthy habits with performance, whether in sports, school, or everyday life. Following the activity, Kate and Kaitlyn joined our middle and high school students for an open-format conversation and Q&A. They shared candid reflections from their journeys as professional athletes, offering insight into the mindset, discipline, and support systems that have shaped their success. Throughout the conversation, several key themes emerged that resonated deeply with our girls: Practice positive self-talk. The way you speak to yourself matters. Be a great teammate. Support others, even when things aren’t going your way. Asking for help is a strength. Growth doesn’t happen alone. Visualize your goals. See yourself succeeding and work toward it. Learn from your mistakes. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Find what brings you joy. Passion fuels persistence. Take care of your body. What you put in matters. Preparation is key. Confidence comes from putting in the work. Kate emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, even in difficult moments, and showing up as a supportive teammate no matter the circumstances. Kaitlyn spoke about staying grounded, taking care of her body, and trusting the preparation that allows her to perform at her highest level. When girls have the opportunity to engage directly with women leaders—especially in spaces like professional sports—they gain tangible tools, invaluable insights, and a deeper belief in their own potential. We are grateful to the Golden State Valkyries for investing in our girls and helping bring these meaningful experiences to life.

We were honored to welcome California’s First Partner, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, to our Simpson Center for Girls! During her visit, she spent time with our participants, observed programming in action, and heard directly from young people about their experiences building confidence, leadership, and college and career pathways through Girls Inc. of Alameda County. Thank you, First Partner Newsom, for taking the time to connect with our youth and for championing opportunities that empower the next generation of young women across California

We were honored to welcome Justice Kelli Evans of the California Supreme Court for a special fireside chat with our middle and high school students. Justice Evans, who has dedicated her career to public service and advancing fairness within the justice system, shared insights from her professional journey and the values that have guided her work.   What made the experience especially meaningful was the opportunity for conversation. Justice Evans didn’t just speak to our students — she spoke with them. Girls engaged in thoughtful conversations about education, leadership, public service, and the importance of ensuring access to justice for all communities. Moments like this remind us how powerful representation can be. When young people meet leaders who reflect their values and experiences, it expands their sense of what’s possible. Exposure matters. Representation matters. And proximity to role models can spark the confidence and curiosity that shape future paths.

Our middle schoolers traded their notebooks for legal pads as they stepped inside the San Francisco Federal Courthouse for a two-day mock trial experience led by U.S. District Judge Rita F. Lin. On day one, students were presented with a case scenario and selected to serve as either Plaintiff’s Counsel or Defendant’s Counsel. They analyzed the facts, built their arguments, and drafted opening statements—preparing to present in a real federal courtroom. On day two, they took their places at counsel tables, introduced themselves at the attorney lectern, and delivered their opening statements into the courtroom microphone—just like practicing attorneys.   They didn’t stop there. Students: Learned how a federal courtroom is structured and why it matters Presented formal opening statements before Judge Lin Practiced witness examinations after a live demonstration Visited the Jury Room and Judge Lin’s Chambers Reflected together during closing remarks This wasn’t just a field trip—it was immersive civic learning in action. Experiences like this help young people build confidence, sharpen critical thinking, strengthen public speaking skills, and see themselves in spaces where decisions are made and justice is shaped. For many of our students, it was their first time inside a federal courthouse. After this week, it may not be their last. Special thanks to Judge Lin for dedicating her time and expertise and to our Woman of Impact and Attorney, Christina Chen, for facilitating this opportunity.

This fall, we partnered with the Smithsonian Institute to engage youth in Democracy in Dialogue, a national curriculum that invites young people to explore democracy through lived experience—exploring their own stories, identities, and communities while learning from peers in other parts of the country. Rather than learning about democracy from a text book, Democracy in Dialogue invites students to utilize core democratic skills in their every day lives: listening across difference, reflecting on identity and place, practicing empathy, and using their voices to understand and contribute to the broader American experience. As part of this curriculum, our high schoolers engaged in a virtual exchange with peers participating in the program through the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA). Together, they shared personal stories, city histories, traditions, exchanged gifts from home, and reflected on how where they are from shapes their perspectives.   To put their learning into practice, students completed a “Hidden Beauty” project, exploring their neighborhoods through a camera lens, capturing meaningful places, small details, and forgotten spaces in their everyday environments. Each student then selected one photograph to analyze more deeply, creating a poem, collage, and presentation connecting their personal experience to broader community narratives. Through art and reflection, students practiced self-advocacy and storytelling as civic acts: claiming space for their experiences and affirming that their communities matter. Student photos from their “Hidden Beauty” project “Participating in the Smithsonian Democracy and Dialogue project with UMMA was an amazing experience,” shared Allison, a 12th-grade participant. “We connected with their students, shared ideas, and had real conversations. It was really cool to see different perspectives and how everyone finds meaning differently.” Explore 12th grader Kelliegh’s final Hidden Beauty project and see how she brought elements of her community to life through poetry—capturing the everyday nuances, connections, and complexity of the Bay Area Rapid Transit system. At a time when conversations about democracy feel more important than ever, experiences like this remind our girls that democracy begins with voice, connection, and participation—and that they have a role to play in shaping the future. Thank you for making opportunities like this possible. Your support helps ensure that girls don’t just learn about leadership and civic engagement—they practice it, build confidence, and can see themselves as change-makers in their communities.

This summer, Girls Inc. of Alameda County launched its Women in Trades Pilot Program, introducing high school girls to career pathways in the skilled trades. The program kicked off with woodworking workshops facilitated by the Retention Apprenticeship Program (RAMP) and led by union carpenter Olwyn Brown and an all-women crew of carpentry professionals. Under their guidance, high schoolers 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, it was their first time working with power tools and engaging in building projects. 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 workshops kicked off a year-long series designed to expand students’ exposure to the skilled trades through hands-on learning, career panels, and mentorship. Providing early exposure to the skilled trades supports Girls Inc. of Alameda County’s broader workforce development initiative to equip girls with the skills and confidence to pursue diverse postsecondary and career pathways—including direct entry into the workforce. 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!

Career exposure is most powerful when young people can see themselves reflected in the fields they’re exploring. Through our recent STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) panel, students learned directly from women working in construction, research, biotechnology, and public health —fields where women remain underrepresented. By hearing how these professionals found their paths and built expertise, STEM careers became more concrete, relatable, and attainable. Thank you to our outstanding panelists:

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!

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!

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!