Research-Based Programming

Our nationally-developed programs are the result of studies conducted by the Girls Incorporated National Resource Center – the largest and most comprehensive research center on girls in the country. These informal education programs encourage girls to take risks and master physical, intellectual and emotional challenges. These programs address math and science education, health and sexuality, drug abuse prevention, media literacy, economic literacy, adolescent health, violence prevention, communication, conflict resolution, and sports participation.

“Girls Inc. is a place where I feel safe and free to express myself.” – Emma, age 15

Economic Literacy® enhances financial competence & confidence, teaches fiscal responsibility, promotes within girls a sense of economic justice. Learn More

Leadership and Community Action®enables girls to join in partnership with women leaders in their community to develop and practice leadership & advocacy skills, and conduct community action projects. Learn More

Operation SMART was launched in 1985 to dispel stereotypes about math and science and to invite girls ages 6 to 18 to join the fun of discovering the world around them. The approach was fun, but the purpose was serious: prepare girls for lucrative scientific and technical careers that most of them would otherwise never consider. Learn More

PEACE Initiative (Personal Empowerment And Conflict Examination) provides girls the skills they need to communicate effectively and to mediate conflict with respect and a sense of responsibility. Learn More

Project Bold® provides a continuum of age-appropriate/gender-specific violence prevention programming to give girls and young women the skills, strategies, and support for personal safety, safety in their communities, and beyond. Learn More

Sporting Chance® provides girls with opportunities to learn basic movement and sport skills and increase their coordination, endurance, and strength. Learn More

Girls enCourage is an outdoor leadership program for girls ages 12-14 that builds girls’ adventure sports skills, fosters their independence, and equips them to be healthy, safe, and active in the outdoors. Learn More

Girls Inc. Media Literacy encourages girls to examine how media messages are constructed, how these messages reflect social values, and how girls’ active participation can influence the messages—and the values. Learn More

GirlSTART is a program designed to increase the literacy skills, self-esteem and success of first and second grade. Learn More