Q: What is Girls Inc. of Greater Pittsburgh?

A: Formerly known as Strong Women, Strong Girls Pittsburgh, we’ve joined the national Girls Inc. network to expand our programming and serve girls ages 5 through 21. This transition provides national resources, branding, and support while maintaining our local team and mission.

Q: Who is Girls Inc.?

A: A reputable long standing organization with a 160 year history founded in 1864 to serve girls and young women. It is the longest running girls’ leadership organization domestically with over 65 affiliates in the U.S. and Canada. 

Q: Why did this change happen?

A: The merger allows us to better serve “the whole girl” with comprehensive programming that addresses academic, social, and emotional needs. We now have access to national expertise, data-driven evaluation tools, and greater visibility to make a deeper impact in our community.

Q: What’s staying the same?

A: Our staff and our 501(c)(3) status remain fully intact. We will continue to run our after-school programs for elementary-aged girls across all 40+ of our elementary school locations. Additionally, we will uphold our partnerships with university chapters to ensure the continuation of our model, where college women mentor elementary school girls. 

Q: What new opportunities does this transition bring?

A: Starting in Summer/Fall 2025, we will:

  • Expand into middle schools, beginning with one or two local neighborhoods.
  • In Summer 2026, we will launch summer camps for enrichment and personal growth.
  • Continue mentoring elementary-aged girls with college students using enhanced Girls
    Inc. programming.

Q: How are you addressing local needs?

A: We’re surveying students, teachers, and community partners to identify program gaps and ensure we’re meeting Pittsburgh’s unique needs.

Q: How can I help?

A: Your support directly enables this transition, empowering us to expand our reach and innovate programming that impacts girls’ lives. By donating, you’ll help us launch new initiatives, support more girls, and fuel their success in school and beyond.

Q: What’s the focus of the 2024 end-of-year campaign?

A: Our theme is “#JoinTheJourney” —an invitation for community members like you to be part of this exciting transformation. Together, we can ensure every girl has the resources and support she needs to thrive.

To make a donation in support of our girls and young women, please visit our Donate page by clicking here. 

 

For more information about our organizational transition, please contact Wade Johnson, Director of External Communications, at wjohnson@girlsincpgh.org.