Girls Inc. (Catalogue '97) began more than 20 years ago as a program designed to prevent teenage pregnancies by inspiring girls to be strong, smart and bold on their own. Over the years, its preventive programs were so successful, and its positive programs were so engaging, fun and educational, that they have become the focus -- developing skills in communications, leadership, assertiveness, and business; college readiness; and career exploration.

The original three programs were "Growing Together" for 9-11 year-old girls and their parents, "Will Power/Won't Power" for 12-14 year olds, and "Taking Care of Business" for 13-18 year olds. These were supplemented by several peer-led prevention programs, against substance abuse (Friendly PEERsuasion), HIV (HIP--Healthy, Informed Peers), and violence (Cool Resolvers). Since 1997 Girls, Inc. has added "Operation SMART" -- a special curriculum in "Science, Math, And Related Technologies" that prepares girls for a high-tech future; and MATCH ("Mentors And Teens Connecting Holyoke"), which in 2001 matched 41 girls with adults of similar interests as role-models to help keep girls in school, guide them through the college application process, and encourage healthy friendships. The goal for each girl is a confident, responsible, self-supporting, adulthood, and Girls, Inc. delivers. Please help strengthen this good work.