A new study shows that girls who receive supports from Girls Inc. have a significant advantage over their peers.
The study, done by the American Institutes for Research (AIR), is included in the Stronger, Smarter, Bolder: Girls Take the Lead report released by Girls Inc. released on Jan. 6.
In order for girls to realize their potential, the report shows that there are four crucial supports: the right relationships, encouragement to develop and use their voice, a positive self-image, and intellectual confidence.
Nanase Tonda, executive director of Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta said that Girls Inc. programming is catered to these four fundamental supports through 18 programs including exercise, mentorship, and STEM engagement.
“This research is important because it validates the fact that the Girls Inc. approach works. It’s our multi-faceted, dimensional, holistic approach that works, that we can then tailor into the outstanding gaps to address structural barriers that are surrounding girls in our Indigenous communities.”
She added that the non-profit is inclusive in wanting to help all girls become stronger, smarter and bolder.
The report shows that Girls Inc. girls did significantly better than their peers on 24 dimensions.
They’re more likely to express beliefs, have strong leadership skills, participate in sports teams and exercise regularly, and are more likely to show interest in STEM subjects.
“Change needs to come from many angles and the issues facing girls are multi-faceted and interconnected so taking a holistic and multi-dimensional view of girls is critical to understanding the barriers to their success and strategizing how to overcome them.”
In 2019 Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta reached over 700 girls.
