At Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region, we couldn't agree more with Rex Smith's column, "Where hopes can be born and achieved," May 18. Our free after-school programs in Albany and Schenectady aren't "simply giving (girls) something to do (but) giving them something to be," as recently quoted by first lady Michelle Obama, our national organization's honorary chairwoman.
Our programs are research-based. We realize the importance of starting as young as age 5 to provide girls with positive role models who can help with homework, nurture career interests and be the cheerleaders who show that dreams can become reality.
Girls Inc. understands how girls develop and think. One program is geared toward encouraging girls to resist peer pressure, especially regarding sex and pregnancy. Another, called Eureka!, is a multiyear summer program where girls can nurture their interests in STEM fields.
Eureka! gives girls hope for a future they themselves can build by breaking through gender barriers and pursuing careers in male-dominated fields.
DC Dunkel's teenage sisters, in his temporary custody following their mother's arrest, would benefit greatly from Girls Inc. — a positive influence for young girls when school budgets fall short and home life can cloud their thinking.
We must ensure all children are aware of the opportunities available in their schools, and of the after-school and community programs that can help them choose to "be a good student" as did June Criscione, the Albany High School senior recently named a U.S. Presidential Scholar.
Please recommend our programs or get involved and help us empower the next generation of strong young women.
Ashley L. Jeffrey
Executive Director, Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region
Schenectady