Peachjar Blog

Empowering Girls: Programs Focused on Gender Equality

Written by Roger Devine | October 10, 2024

Gender equality matters and remains a vital issue, especially when it comes to empowering girls. With the right programs and support systems, we can create a more inclusive society where every girl feels confident to chase her dreams. Fostering gender equality not only benefits girls but also builds stronger, more resilient communities. We want to highlight some of the great organizations around the communities in our country using Peachjar to get their message out about their programs designed to empower girls and promote gender equality, focusing on how they are creating lasting change for young women everywhere.

Why Gender Equality Matters

Gender equality is not just a women's issue; it is a human issue. When we talk about empowering girls, we’re talking about creating opportunities for them to grow, lead, and thrive in a world where they can participate fully in society—without barriers. The focus on gender equality is essential in shaping the next generation of women leaders, innovators, and change-makers.

Equal opportunities for education, leadership, and professional growth help in closing the gender gap that still exists in many parts of the world. Through strategic, focused programs, girls are given the tools they need to defy stereotypes, overcome challenges, and achieve their full potential.

Key Programs Focused on Empowering Girls

1. Elon-Alamance Partnerships Girls in Motion

Throughout the decades, working in partnership with Alamance County has been a hallmark of Elon University’s mission. Together the two communities have created programs and connections, including providing local children with access to academic support and pathways to success; offering medical care for those who need it most; growing the local business community with internships and professional development opportunities; and creating opportunities for the  community to gather for cultural events and activities.

Girls in Motion is a program to promote positive overall well-being by building resilience and self-confidence through education, exercise, and mentorship with Elon University Women.

2. Girl Scouts

Girls Scouts troops all over the country use Peachjar to reach families and future scouts in their local communities. Girl Scouts focuses on empowering the curiosity, dreams, and talents that lies within every girl scout. When they come together to decide which of the thousands of Girl Scout activities to try, the sky’s the limit. Whether visiting an animal shelter, camping, hosting a dance-off, or filming a movie—they’re learning to take risks, trust their gut, and team up with others for good.

3. Girls Explore STEM

Girls Explore STEM by Washington State University Everett is one of the many STEM related programs found on Peachjar. 

On their website for the event, WSU Everett writes “In the United States, women make up half of the total U.S. college-educated workforce, but they only constitute 28% of the science and engineering workforce. This underrepresentation is not due to a lack of interest or capability but often due to societal and cultural barriers. Encouraging girls to participate in STEM activities from a young age can help bridge this gap, fostering a more diverse and inclusive future for these fields. By joining us for this event, girls can take a step towards breaking these barriers and envision themselves as the next generation of STEM leaders.”

4. Anxiety and Depression Teen Girls Group

Found on Peachjar and held by Haven for Hearts, this is a once weekly therapy group for teen girls ages 14-18 who may experience anxiety or depression. The group focuses on thinking in healthy ways, developing coping skills, and building on individual strengths to successfully manage difficult feelings.

5. GRiT Girls Riding Together

Held by the North State Composite Mountain Bike Team and found on Peachjar, GRiT Girls Riding Together is an event led by NICA licensed women coaches for girls interested in learning basic bike maintenance and riding on dirt. 

NICA’s (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) GRiT (Girls Riding Together) initiative exists to address the lack of representation of women and girls in mountain biking.

Through GRiT, they create the safe spaces and opportunities necessary for women and girls to engage, build confidence, belong, and thrive as riders and humans. They want to give girls and women equitable access to the transformative power of mountain biking, so that there is ultimately gender parity in the sport.

How Parents Can Support Gender Equality Programs

Families play a crucial role in supporting gender equality programs. By encouraging their daughters to participate in leadership roles, explore their interests in STEM, and take an active part in their communities, parents can nurture a sense of confidence and independence in their girls.

Additionally, parents can advocate for gender equality by supporting school programs and initiatives that promote equality. Having open conversations at home about gender stereotypes, media influence, and how to challenge unfair treatment can equip girls with the mindset to overcome obstacles.

The Power of Mentorship

One of the best ways to empower girls is through mentorship. Girls who have strong female role models are more likely to aspire to leadership positions and break down barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields. Encouraging girls to seek out mentors can help build their self-confidence, expand their network, and provide them with the support they need to succeed.

Creating a Gender-Equal Future

Programs focused on empowering girls and promoting gender equality are essential for building a fairer, more inclusive world. Whether it's through education, leadership development, or simply providing the resources girls need to succeed, these initiatives make a lasting impact on the lives of young women and their communities.

By supporting these programs, parents, educators, and communities can help ensure that the next generation of girls grows up with the confidence and tools to pursue their dreams—breaking down barriers and achieving gender equality for all.