Welcome Strong Women, Strong Girls
•Opportunity Nation welcomes Strong Women, Strong Girls to the Coalition.
Strong Women, Strong Girls (SWSG) is a nonprofit organization with an important mission: building communities of women committed to supporting positive social change. To do this, the organization has created a model of mentoring that reinforces confidence, expands aspirations and creates a civically engaged life among three generations: elementary-aged girls, undergraduate women and professional women.
This approach not only provides incredible support and opportunities for growth for its elementary-aged participants, but also fosters an interest in community service for its undergraduate mentors and adult volunteers. In 2012-2013, 94% of mentors reported increased desire to participate in community service. As noted in the Opportunity Index, civic engagement and volunteerism are two factors that are critical for the health and vitality of one’s community and the expansion of opportunity.
“One woman can set an example and make a difference within the existing system,” said Haviva Kohl, president of Strong Women, Strong Girls. “But a community of like-minded women…can create a new norm, inspiring girls to lift their heads higher, think bigger and create a new game where no matter your background, no matter your economic situation. The only limit is your ambition.”
Since launching in 2004, SWSG has served more than 9,000 girls, recruited more than 3,000 college mentors and raised over $5 million.
Strong Women, Strong Girls is active in Boston, Pittsburgh and South Florida, working in more than 60 communities.
In 2012-2013, Strong Women, Strong Girls saw positive results from their efforts:
- 90% of parents plan to enroll their daughter into SWSG again next year.
- 91% of girls increased social-emotional skills, as well as increased or maintained their self-esteem.
- 87% of girls increased leadership capabilities.
- 96% of mentors increased their mentoring skills.
- 94% of mentors increased leadership capabilities.
Opportunity Nation is excited to be working Strong Women, Strong Girls, and to add this organization’s experience and mission to our diverse coalition.
Jennifer Jordan
Jennifer D. Jordan is Opportunity Nation’s Senior Writer. She shares the campaign’s mission and accomplishments and those of its coalition with diverse audiences, seeking to heighten awareness about expanding economic mobility to more Americans. Read Jennifer's bio.
