PhilosophyLocal HistoryNational HistoryBiographyWhat Makes UsBill of RightsLeadership TeamStaffBoard of Directors |
National History
The Girls Incorporated movement started during the Industrial Revolution as a response to the needs of a new working class: young women who had migrated from rural communities in search of newly available job opportunities in textile mills and factories. The oldest Girls Incorporated affiliate, formed in 1864 in Waterbury, Connecticut, provided programs not only for young working women but also for younger daughters who had no place to go. Each center created a homelike atmosphere at a time when wages were low and there was little money to spend on recreation. Programming in the early days focused on recreation and on preparing girls for their future roles as wives and homemakers. There were courses in cooking, sewing, knitting and manners while some centers offered dramatics and swimming. Today, Girls Inc. has programs that focus on science, math and technology, health, economic and financial literacy, sports skills, leadership and advocacy for girls ages 5 to 18 years old throughout the United States and Canada. We produce and distribute an annual report each year. To receive a copy of our annual report, contact Peg Ganger at 731-9933 or email her at gangerp@girlsincjax.org. << Back |