Did you know that 15 million children and youth are released from school everyday without adult supervision? Unfortunately, the afterschool hours become high-risk hours for juvenile crime and other dangers for both boys and girls. Girls Inc. fills that gap by providing transportation, positive adult role models, and a safe environment for the children of working families. We serve girls every day from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. during the school year, and from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the summer.
Did you know that the average yearly cost to house a child in a peninsula detention is $51,000 and nationwide estimates for secure detention range from $32,000-$65,000 per year per youth? In contrast, one year of comprehensive afterschool and summer programming at Girls Inc. costs less than $2,000!
Did you know that Girls Inc has three (3) locations on the peninsula that provide service to an average to 250 girls per day? Provides transportation from over 25 schools in Hampton and Newport News to programs location? Provides a daily snack? Allow quiet time for homework completion and a Girls Inc national research-based program daily for only $25 per week?
Did you know that our community need effective prevention program that will reduce the risky behaviors in safe learning environment, not a place that ‘store’ children and teens with a ping-pong table and a television set? Girls at Girls Inc participate in proven, research-based programs that nurture their healthy development and reduce negative behavior.
This is why with our current economic environment as well as the juvenile violence that is popping up in our community, it does not feel right to hold a big “gala” with formal décor and national celebrities. Extravagance is out, conservatism is in. Therefore, Girls Incorporated of the Greater Peninsula has been giving a great deal of thought to our upcoming People of Influence Fundraising Gala and decided to cancel our 2009 gala dinner this year.
The annual event has grown to become Girls Incorporated of the Greater Peninsula’s signature event for the past 4 years. Girls Incorporated supporters enjoyed an elegant dinner with national celebrities. Gala guests have included, Gail Perry-Mason, author of the book “Girls Make Your Money Grow”, actress Angela Bassett, Judge Glenda Hatchett, from the national syndicated television show “Judge Hatchett”, and Officer Byrd from the national syndicated courtroom show “Judge Judy.” In addition, guests enjoyed appreciative songs from the Girls Inc. choir. Guests also observed the Leadership Institute for Teens members formal Cotillion that demonstrated evidence of the positive effects of participating in Girls Inc. national research based programs.
But these are extraordinary times that require thought, action and ideas that are new and creative. That is why we are asking you to support our Annual Giving Campaign and pledge your monetary annual support although we are foregoing the 2009 gala dinner this year. Being fully aware of the current economic environment and the increase in crime among youth, many of you are aware that the gala is an expensive event to hold. The combined cost of the facility, food, celebrity travel, and staff are much more than you think, while the needs of youth and families in our community continue. So, it seems like a “good idea” that all of the monetary donations be allocated to direct service at Girls Inc.
We at Girls Inc. and other similar organizations are struggling. Families come to us routinely that do not have the ability to pay for national research-based programs. We try to make Girls Inc. affordable for them by charging only $5 per day/$25 per week. However, for us to provide safe after school and summer environments as well as maintain transportation, quality staff and effective research-based programs, we need investments from YOU.
Please consider our request to support Girls Inc. of the Greater Peninsula Annual Giving Campaign. Complete the enclosed donation envelope or sponsorship form, enclosed your tax deductible donations payable to Girls Incorporated by Thursday, December 3, 2009 and mail today! Girls Inc is a United Way Member Agency. Donate to United Way and consider designating your donation to Girls Inc. of the Greater Peninsula (Designation Code #7021). If you have any questions please call Dr. Jackie Jackson (757) 244-0716 or (757) 722-6248. Please visit our website at www.girlsincofgreaterpen.com to learn more about our program services.
On behalf of the Girls Inc girls, the staff and the board of directors we thank you for your generosity and support of our efforts of inspiring all girls to be strong, smart and bold.
In effort,
C. Jackie Jackson
Dr. Jackie Jackson
Executive Director
Girls Incorporated of the Greater Peninsula
Inspiring all girls to be Strong, Smart, and Bold
Information (please print) Sponsorship
Name/Business Name
Address
City
State
ZIP Code
Telephone (home)
Telephone (business)
Fax
E-Mail
Sponsorship LevelI (we) sponsored:
□ $5,000 the cost for 1 year of afterschool transportation for 30 youths
□ $3,500 the cost for summer camp transportation for fieldtrips
□ $2,500 the cost for 1/2 year for afterschool transportation for 30 youths
□ $2,000 the cost for one year afterschool scholarship (2 semesters)
□ $1,500 the cost for 1 semester for afterschool and summer camp
□ $1,000 the cost for for 1 semester afterschool scholarship
□ $500 the cost to sponsored 1 youth for summer camp
□ $200 the cost to sponsor 1 youth for 2 months for after school (partial scholarship)
□ $100 the cost to sponsor 1 youth for 1 month afterschool (partial scholarship)
