Meet Our 2009 Touchstone Awards Honorees!

Ellen K. Annala, Alpha C. Blackburn selected as 2009 Honorees

By Pat Wachtel, President and CEO

Girls Inc. is thrilled to announce that Ellen Annala and Alpha Blackburn will be honored at the 2009 Touchstone Awards!

Ellen Annala is the president and CEO of United Way of Central Indiana, and Alpha Blackburn is the president and CEO of Blackburn Architects. Though they have different areas of expertise, both women are accomplished in their respective fields and extremely dedicated to their shared Indianapolis community.

Annala and Blackburn will join the ranks of the 38 inspring women who are former Touchstone Award winners, and the two will round out our list to 40 honorees. In celebration of Girls Inc.'s 40th anniversary in Indianapolis, each of the 40 honorees, past and present, will be highlighted at the event!

Visit the Touchstone Awards webpage to learn more about Annala and Blackburn and to see all 40 women who will be honored this year!

Save the date for the 2009 Touchstone Awards on August 6, 2009! Tickets will be available online in mid-June. We hope to see you there!

Spring, By The Numbers!

Girls Inc. wraps up spring programs with record-setting numbers
By Christy Barlow, Director of Programs

Indianapolis is always in full throttle each spring. Girls Inc's spring program cycle (which runs from March through May) seemed to follow the same speed!

Hundreds of girls were engaged in our programs throughout Central Indiana this season. Here is a quick look into our spring, by the numbers.

37 - the number of programs Girls Inc. delivered this spring.
In addition to these, we also hosted three one-time Lunch Bunch programs.

24 - the number of community partners we worked with this spring.
Partners consisted of schools, community centers, and sororities -- and many partners asked us to deliver multiple programs.

5 - the number of new community partners we worked with this spring.
We welcomed Zeta Phi Beta, Challenge Foundation Academy, Clinton Young Elementary, Brookside Elementary, and Decatur Intermediate Learning Center to our list of fantastic partners.

43- the number of volunteers who facilitated programs this spring.

15- the average number of girls in each spring program.

We are well on our way to engaging 1,600 girls in our programs this year!

Dear World -- It's Me, A Girl!

National education campaign shares girls' voices

By Alison Schumacher, Vice President of Development

Girls Incorporated® asked girls: "If you could send a message to the whole world about what it's like growing up as a girl today, what would you say?"

Their answers form the national "Dear World" public education campaign.

Girls Inc. believes that all girls are inherently strong, smart, and bold. Showing them that their voices are trusted, respected, and above all, heard is a critical part of helping them stay strong, smart, and bold in the face of gender stereotypes and pressure to conform.

Join Girls Inc. in honoring girls’ voices—help us ask the whole world to sit up, pay attention, and celebrate along with us.

Watch this video to learn more about the "Dear World" campaign!

Featured Supporter -- Eli Lilly & Company

Girls Inc. benefits from Lilly’s Global Day of Service

By LaTasha Hudson, Volunteer Partnership Coordinator

On May 20, eighteen Eli Lilly & Company employees participated in Lilly’s Global Day of Service by partnering with Girls Inc. of Indianapolis! Some of the projects they completed are:

• moving and setting up furniture for our summer camp,


• repairing lattice on our outdoor patio to provide girls a shaded place to eat,


• spreading 45 cubic yards of mulch on our outdoor playground to give the girls a safe place to play.

Girls Inc. saved money on the projects our Lilly volunteers completed, and those funds can now be directed to offsetting camp fees for many families this summer.

We are truly thankful for the time, energy, and hard work of our Lilly volunteers: John Chlapik, Mark Copeland, Jim Cross, Jeff Fox, Bret Haisley, Carl Hartmann, Jeremy Hemiup, Darren Holland, Mike Koenig, Karl Kovach, Ian Leavesley, Ron Ruff, Cindi Scott, Sandy Seward, Yvonne Stephens, Jeffrey Tan, Kathy Whiteside, Billie Woodard. Thank you for volunteering for Girls Inc.!

Volunteer Profile

Rhaya Shilts"When I first decided to volunteer for Girls Inc., it was because I wanted to donate my time to an organization that encouraged girls to be confident of their aspirations despite obstacles they may see in their way."Read more...

Tell a Girl Tip

Tell a girl that a skinned knee is an athlete's badge of courage.

If you take a moment to tell a girl all the remarkable things you see in her, not only will she believe you, she'll also start to believe in herself.

Just a Reminder...

• It's your last chance to sign up a girl for Girls Inc.'s summer camps!
• Check our Girls Incorporated's "Dear World" campaign!
• Sign up to volunteer with Girls Inc. of Indianapolis!

Send a Girl to Summer Camp!

Recession economy increases demand for summer camp scholarships

By Christy Barlow, Director of Programs

What was your favorite summer activity when you were 10 years old? To the 120 girls who will attend one of our camps this summer, their favorite summer activity is Girls Inc., of course! Our summer camps are full of fun, friends, field trips, and phenomenal programming. At $200 per two-week session, it's also affordable for many families!

This year, however, 73 percent of our camp registrants have applied for scholarship assistance. We've already given away nearly $8,000 in scholarships, and more girls request help each week.
Send a girl to camp by making a donation towards a summer camp scholarships today! Listen to Courtney as she explains why camp has meant so much to her by watching this video:

Remember Your First Summer Job?

Girls Inc. is now hiring two junior counselors for our summer camp
By Ami Kane, Coordinator of Program and Curriculum Development

Girls Inc. is currently seeking two energetic, responsible teen girls to serve as part-time junior counselors for our summer camp. Applicants will gain experience must be entering their sophomore, junior, or senior year in high school and have prior experience with Girls Inc.

Simone Smith, a junior counselor for last year's summer camp, valued the opportunity to work with young girls. She said, "Being a junior counselor was a very fun experience, and I enjoyed it a lot! It was something that really touched me, to look at these young girls and to know that they were like me when I was their age."

Check out our website to see the full junior counselor job description and apply!

It's A-Bout Time!

Naptown Roller Girls partner with Girls Inc. at May 30 Cyclone Wars

By Alison Schumacher, Vice President of Development

Join the Naptown Roller Girls and Girls Inc. on Saturday, May 30 at Cyclone Wars, a double-header featuring Indy's own Warning Belles and Tornado Sirens. Sales of a special coloring book, featuring local artists’ interpretations of “strong, smart, and bold designs, and shirts designed by Artur Silva, will benefit Girls Inc!

Nikki Sutton (or "Smackie Onassis," as she's known in the roller derby world), is an alumna of Girls Inc. who dreamed up this fundraiser. All proceeds from the afterparty at Birdy's will also be donated to Girls Inc.

The coloring books and shirts will be sold at the May 30 bout only. All of the Naptown Roller Girls' bouts have sold out this year, so purchase your tickets early!

Honor Your Strong, Smart, and Bold Mother!

Order Mother's Day flowers from McNamara Florist and 5% will go to Girls Inc.
By Ashley Crockett-Lohr, Special Events Coordinator

Girls Inc. has partnered with McNamara Florist to offer a special promotion for Mother's Day flowers! Celebrate your strong, smart, and bold mother by ordering her flowers from McNamara Florist! Mention offer code GINC9 when you check out, and they'll donate 5% of your order to Girls Inc. of Indianapolis!

Volunteers Get Physical at Free Pilates Session

Volunteers enjoy free pilates class offered by Perfect Pilates Studio

By Dana Bushouse, Coordinator of Volunteer and Intern Recruitment

Girls Inc. volunteers put their strength to the test on April 8th at a free pilates class offered by Perfect Pilates Studio in Westfield!

Thank you to studio owner Lindsey Fella-Berry for offering this unique opportunity to our volunteers! Fella-Berry led volunteers through challenging pilates exercises, testing their strength with machines like the "universal reformer."

Girls Inc. offers quarterly volunteer appreciation events for volunteers to thank them for their hard work facilitating programs for local girls. Past events have been networking events, cooking demonstrations, and spa nights. Learn more about volunteering with Girls Inc. and apply to volunteer online!

Featured Partner - Corporation for National & Community Service

Americorps VISTA members have made significant contributions to Girls Inc.

By Megan Siehl, Manager of Development Operations

Over the past year, Girls Inc. has hosted four AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) members who have made significant contributions to our organization. AmeriCorps VISTA members commit to a year of full-time service, during which they combat poverty by building the capacity of nonprofit organizations.

Our VISTA members have played important role in our recent growth and expansion, helping us to build our capacity and to inspire more Central Indiana girls to be strong, smart, and bold.

We are excited to welcome five new full-year VISTA members in June, in addition to five Summer Associate VISTA members, who will complete 10-week terms this summer. Thank you to the Corporation of National & Community Service, and Indiana State Director Louis Lopez in particular, for their continued support to Girls Inc. of Indianapolis through the AmeriCorps VISTA program!

Just a Reminder...

• Make a generous donation that will send a girl to Girls Inc. summer camp!
• Encourage a girl to apply for a Girls Inc. junior summer camp counselor position!
• Order your Mother's Day flowers from McNamara Florist, and use code GINC9!

Check out photos from Saturday's Girls' Bill of Rights Celebration!

Check out photos from Saturday's Girls' Bill of Rights Celebration!

Tell a Girl Tip

Tell a girl she can do great things. If you take a moment to tell a girl all the remarkable things you see in her, not only will she believe you, she'll also start to believe in herself.

The Best 40 Hours You'll Ever Spend!

Girls Inc. volunteers impact girls' futures with small time commitment

By Dana Bushouse, Coordinator of Volunteer & Intern Recruitment

Where else can 40 hours of your time have 40 years of impact? Volunteers who commit the equivalent of one work week to lead a Girls Inc. program permanently impact the girls they teach for the better.

Jamesha, age 12, and Dionne, age 10, recently completed a "Work It Out" program led by volunteers. Jamesha said, "Thank you for coming and helping us. I had a great time with Ms. Jessica and Mrs. Donna; I know what they taught us will work!” Dionne said, "I think this program will help people who are getting bullied and will help friends that are fighting with each other!"

Girls Inc. has made it even easier to become a volunteer! Check out our new online volunteer application and get started making a difference for girls!

In celebration of April's National Volunteer Month, we've asked experienced volunteer Maryvonne Kerzabi to tell us what she's gained from working with girls. Hear what she has to say in her video interview!

Join Us and Celebrate Girls' Rights!

Day-long celebration will star Indiana Fever player Tamika Catchings

By Christy Barlow, Director of Programs

On Saturday, May 2, girls ages 9-14 will join Indiana Fever star Tamika Catchings at Jameson Camp to celebrate their own bill of rights! In honor of Girls Inc.'s 40th anniversary, we're amping up the annual Girls' Bill of Rights day to include a full-day of exciting, empowering activities for girls. This year, girls will:

• hone fitness skills alongside Tamika Catchings.


• build confidence and teamwork skills through Jameson Camp's ropes course.


• form friendships with girls throughout Central Indiana.


• and much more!
  

Registration for this celebration is just $10 per girl. Everyone who attends will enjoy transportation to and from Jameson Camp, provided meals, and a goodie bag full of valuable personal and academic resources! Register a girl online by April 29th for the 2009 Girls' Bill of Rights Celebration!

Grab Your Paintbrush and Give Back!

Girls Inc. alumna hosts pottery night to fund summer camp scholarships

By Kristen Bax, Development Intern

On Saturday, April 18, stop by Pottery By You, a paint-your-own ceramics studio, and help send a girl to summer camp! The studio will donate 50 percent of the day's proceeds to summer camp scholarships, so each piece you paint from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. will benefit a Central Indiana girl. The need for scholarships is high -- over 75 percent of our campers have applied for aid this year!
Katie Laux, the studio's owner, is a Girls Inc. alumna and wants to inspire this generation of girls to be strong, smart, and bold -- like she is!
Pottery By You is located at 2278 W. 86th Street across from St. Vincent Hospital. Check out their website for more information.

Girls Inc. Staff on the Rise!

Three key staff members promoted to new positions at Girls Inc.

By Pat Wachtel, CEO

I'm pleased to announce three staff promotions:

Alison Schumacher (right) has been promoted from director of development to vice president of development;
Megan Siehl (center), our former grants coordinator, is now our manager of development operations;
Kristi Dobson (left), previously my executive assistant, is our new office manager.
For a complete list of our staff, please visit the online staff directory.

Featured Funders - Old National Bank Foundation & USA Funds

Smart College and Career Planning programs prepare girls for bright futures
By Megan Siehl, Manager of Development Operations

Girls Inc.'s interactive Smart College and Career Planning programs are helping girls prepare for academic achievement, while also helping them plan for their desired education and career goals. So when Caitlin, age 13, told us, "I want to be attorney general of the United States of America and a football player," she knew exactly how much schooling and work experience will be required to achieve her goal!

Many thanks to Old National Bank Foundation and USA Funds for their continued support of girls like Caitlin through our Smart College and Career Planning programs!

Just a reminder...

• Commit to being a positive influence for girls. Apply online to be a Girls Inc. volunteer!
• Get a girl involved in the Girls' Bill of Rights Celebration or one of our summer camps!
• Grab your brush and paint for summer camp scholarships at the Pottery By You studio on April 18.

"Girls Inc. made my daughters more bold!"

Mom pleased with girls' development after summer camp

By Alison Schumacher, Vice President of Development

LaTonya's twelve year old daughters attended Camp GEMS, the two-week math and science camp held by Girls Inc. and the Life Science Education Center at Marian College last year. With respect to Girls Inc.'s mission to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold, LaTonya felt that her twins had the strong and the smart, but not the bold. For instance, one of her daughters ran for student council a year ago, but wasn't successful in her bid. She swore she would not run again.

However, after her daughters attended Camp GEMS and participated in Girls Inc.'s personal empowerment and self-confidence programs, LaTonya noticed they had developed the "bold." In fact, when school started this fall, her daughter decided to run again for student council - and she won! Both she and her daughters are looking forward to Camp GEMS in 2009!

Help girls you know become strong, smart, and bold by getting them involved in Girls Inc.'s summer camp programs. Registration is now available online!

Watch a short video about Camp GEMS, Girls Inc. and the Life Science Education Center's science and math specialty camp!

Celebrating Girls Inc.'s "Torchbearer"

CEO Pat Wachtel to be honored at tonight's Torchbearer Awards

By Jill Hagan, Board Chair

It is my pleasure to announce that our CEO, Pat Wachtel, will be honored tonight with a Torchbearer Award from the Indiana Commission for Women.

This award honors women who have eliminated gender barriers while making Indiana a better place to live, work and raise a family. I am elated that Pat is receiving recognition of her strong, smart, and bold leadership and lifetime of breaking barriers, from careers in banking, community development, corporate and community relations, and now nonprofit executive.
I invite you to view excerpts of Pat's nomination letter. Please join me in congratulating Pat for this well-deserved honor!

Meet Our Technology Guru

Jennifer Baltz welcomed as coordinator of strategic technology

By Pat Wachtel, CEO

You may remember meeting Jennifer Baltz a year ago when we introduced her as our AmeriCorps VISTA focusing on e-communications.
In her newest role, Jennifer will use her skills in graphic design and information technology to oversee all of our communications and technology.
Read more about Jennifer's new role!

A Breakfast 40 Years in the Making

Come to a free 40th anniversary breakfast and hear our plans for the future
By Ashley Crockett-Lohr, Special Events Coordinator

This year, we celebrate Girls Inc.'s 40th year serving girls in Central Indiana. But the Girls Inc. that opened in 1969 is drastically different than the organization we are today. Join us for a free 40th anniversary breakfast to learn how Girls Inc. is inspiring girls to be strong, smart, and bold now -- and over the next 40 years!

All breakfast events are held from 8-9 a.m. at Girls Inc's office (3959 N. Central Avenue, Indianapolis, 46205). Visit our website to RSVP for the following dates: March 5, April 2, May 7.

Volunteers Get the Spa Treatment

Volunteers recharge with night of pampering by Aveda Fredric's Institute

By LaTasha Hudson, Volunteer Partnership Coordinator

What’s a better time to relax and be pampered than during the cold winter? On Feb. 5, Aveda Fredric’s Institute hosted an evening of manicures and massages to help us thank our hardworking volunteers.
We were inspired to hold a spa event by our summer campers, who operated a spa business during their Economic Literacy Carnival last July. But unlike our campers who charged "girl bucks" for service, Aveda’s students provided their services to Girls Inc. volunteers for free.
Stir Crazy also chipped in and offered our volunteers free appetizers or desserts! Thanks to Aveda Fredric’s and to Stir Crazy for making this evening possible! Interested in coming to future volunteer events?

Apply to be a volunteer!

Featured Supporter -- Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation

Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation funding economic literacy programs for girls
By Megan Siehl, Manager of Development Operations

Girls Incorporated of Indianapolis received a $15,000 grant from the Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation to support our Economic Literacy programs. These programs build self-reliance by giving girls the message that they are in control of their financial future through exploring a wide range of financial issues, such as budgeting, saving, and investing, as well as the relationship between education and income!

Thanks to the the support of the Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation, we are helping Central Indiana girls prepare to be economically self-sufficient!

Just a reminder...

• Register your girls for one of Girls Inc.'s empowering summer camps!
• Sign up to volunteer with Girls Inc!
• Save the date for the 2009 Touchstone Awards & 40th Anniversary Celebration! The event will be held Aug. 6 from 11-1:30 pm at The Westin Indianapolis.

You're Invited to Girls Inc.'s 40th Birthday Party!

Lorene Burkhart to chair Touchstone Awards & 40th Anniversary Celebration
By Ashley Crockett-Lohr, Special Events Coordinator


Girls Inc. is proud to announce that philanthropist and entrepreneur Lorene Burkhart has agreed to chair our 2009 Touchstone Awards and 40th Anniversary Celebration. As a former Touchstone honoree herself, Lorene has big plans to ensure that this year's Touchstone Awards is a truly special one for all involved!

Please save the date for the 2009 Touchstone Awards and 40th Anniversary Celebration! The luncheon will be held August 6, 2009 from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at The Westin Indianapolis.

Add the Touchstone Awards to your calendar! (iCalendar file, 2KB) Simply open the file and save it to your calendar or download the file and import it into your calendar.

View a special message from Touchstone Awards Chair Lorene Burkhart!

Volunteer Transforms Girls Inc. Service into Employment

LaTasha Hudson hired as volunteer partnership coordinator
By Pat Wachtel, CEO

LaTasha Hudson may be a new staff member, but she’s no stranger to Girls Inc!

LaTasha began volunteering for Girls Inc. in summer 2007 when she coordinated three lunchtime programs with volunteers from United Way of Central Indiana’s Emerging Leaders. She quickly fell in love with delivering Girls Inc. programs and was part of our first-ever team of volunteers trained as Girls Inc. facilitators. Discover how LaTasha's volunteer experience will translate to her job at Girls Inc!

Featured Supporter -- Fox 59/CW4 Community Fund

$10,000 grant will support Girls Inc.'s programs from January to March
By Megan Siehl, Grants Coordinator

Girls Incorporated® of Indianapolis received a $10,000 grant from the Fox 59/CW4 Community Fund, a fund of the McCormick Foundation. This funding will support our winter cycle of programming, which is currently in progress.

With the support of the Fox 59/CW4 Community Fund, we are serving Central Indiana girls with programs like Work It Out, which helps girls negotiate conflict, and She's on the Money, an economic literacy program for six to eight year old girls, through collaborations with school and community partners. Thanks to Shonda Russell and Fox 59 for this generous support of our winter cycle programs!

Welcome to Our New Class of Leaders

Six members elected to join Girls Inc.'s board of directors
By Pat Wachtel, CEO

Welcome to the six new members and two youth members who joined our board of directors last month. Click on their names to read what they think about Girls Inc!

2009 New Board Members
Jennifer Banner, Sigma Micro LLC
Christine Bizzell, Learning for Life
Leslie Fuqua, Youth Member
Colleen Leahy, Youth Member
Molly Martin, Lumina Foundation for Education
Linh Preston, The Center on Philanthropy at IU
Matt Tader, Community Volunteer
Carol Trexler, Community Health Network

What's On Your Mind?

Share your thoughts on our "By The Women, For The Girls" campaign
By Annie Farrell, Americorps VISTA Fund Development Specialist

In December, we asked you be a "part of the puzzle" for girls' futures by participating in the "By The Women, For The Girls" e-campaign. Hundreds of you contributed a piece of the puzzle by making a donation, designing a puzzle piece, or watching the videos. Now we'd like your feedback on the "By The Women, For The Girls" campaign!

Please visit our online survey and tell us what you think! If you participated, what inspired you to do so? If you chose not to participate, tell us why. Your comments will help us learn how to best connect with you.

"Tell A Girl" Tip of the Month

Tell a girl "The Glass Ceiling" is the name of a fairy tale.
If you take a moment to tell a girl all the remarkable things you see in her, not only will she believe you, she'll also start to believe in herself.

My New Year's Resolution with Girls Inc.

Volunteer resolves to impact local girls in 2009

By Carlotta Ford, Girls Inc. Volunteer

"Each one teach one" has always been a motto that I try to apply to my everyday life. Being a volunteer with Girls Inc. has been both rewarding and fulfilling for me. Not only am I able to teach young girls important principles for everyday life, I also have the opportunity to meet so many new people, both young and old.

I resolve this New Year to give an encouraging word to any young girl I may come in contact with, whether at the grocery store or in a program I facilitate. Some of these young ladies are buried in so much negativity on a daily basis that one positive compliment may bring at least an ounce of worth to their day. Read more about Carlotta's resolution to volunteer with Girls Inc. in 2009.

Or watch this short video and discover how you can work with girls as a volunteer in 2009!

Looking to Spice Up Mundane Meetings?

Invite a Girls Inc. speaker to attend your group's next meeting
By Annie Farrell, Americorps VISTA Fund Development Specialist

Would you like to learn more about Girls Inc. at a time and place of your choosing? Now is your chance!

This fall, Girls Inc. launched a Speakers Bureau comprised of select Girls Inc. participants, alumnae, and board members. Our speakers are eager to share their Girls Inc. story with your group. As you're scheduling meetings for 2009, please consider adding Girls Inc. to the agenda.

Discover more information about the speakers bureau and request a speaker for your upcoming meeting.

Welcome Back, Christy Barlow!

Former club manager hired as director of programs
By Pat Wachtel, CEO

I am excited to introduce you to our new program director, Christy Barlow! Christy returns to Girls Inc. after a three-year hiatus. In her previous career at Girls Inc, Christy managed our Fountain Square center and delivered outreach programs. Her commitment to girl issues and experience with the Girls Inc. curriculum is a real asset as we have transitioned to an exclusively-outreach model of service.

Read more about Christy and join me in welcoming her to the Girls Inc. team!

Featured Supporter -- Lilly Endowment Inc.

Lilly Endowment awards $300,000 for outreach expansion
By Megan Siehl, Grants Coordinator

Girls Incorporated® of Indianapolis has received a $300,000 grant from Lilly Endowment Inc! Over the next two years, this funding will be used to continue expanding our outreach services to girls throughout Central Indiana. Lilly Endowment's generous gift will support activities including the development and maintenance of technology tools that support our programming and volunteer recruitment throughout our entire service area; delivery of programs in Marion County schools and community centers; and evaluation of our service model. Together, these efforts will allow us to build out 12 neighborhood hubs in Marion County during the next two years.

Many thanks to Lilly Endowment for its generous grant and continued support of Girls Incorporated® of Indianapolis!

Happy Anniversary to Us!

This year marks Girls Inc.'s 40th anniversary in Central Indiana
By Ashley Crockett-Lohr, Special Events Coordinator

In 2009, Girls Inc. is celebrating our 40th anniversary serving girls in Central Indiana. Please stay tuned to future e-newsletters for announcements about exciting anniversary events!

Girls Inc.'s Sustainability Recognized with Statewide Award

By Megan Siehl, Grants Coordinator

On Nov. 18, Girls Inc. was recognized with an Indiana Achievement Award! This prestigious award - given to only six organizations in the state - recognizes nonprofit organizations for effective business practices and excellence in innovation, impact, and sustainability. Girls Inc. was honored for the implementation of our hub model and its capacity to expand our services to girls while exhibiting efficient, effective, and sustainable strategies.

At the awards luncheon in Indianapolis, Brian Payne, president of The Indianapolis Foundation, presented us with a $10,000 cash prize. We also received a commendation for our achievements from Governor Mitch Daniels.

This award also included the creation of a short video documentary about Girls Inc., which was professionally produced by WFYI and was debuted at the luncheon.

Watch the short video documentary about Girls Inc. online now!

Two Key Funders Celebrate 10th Anniversaries

By Pat Wachtel, CEO

As we're preparing to celebrate Girls Inc.'s 40th anniversary in 2009, we have celebrations on our mind. Two of our key supporters are celebrating ten year milestones in 2008. They are unique and wonderful organizations, but we believe that they share some common characteristics that truly deserve celebration:

• A deep understanding of this community and its needs
• A strategic approach to philanthropy that addresses those community needs
• A willingness to be creative and bold in their grant making
• A real heart for the well being of the Indianapolis community
• A willingness to share advice and wisdom in addition to financial gifts
• An understanding of the importance of validating creative non-profit initiatives

Read more to discover which key funders are celebrating anniversaries this year!

Girls Inc. Welcomes Joi Smith as Vice President & COO

By Pat Wachtel, CEO

I am elated to introduce you to Joi B. Smith, our new vice president & chief operating officer! She comes to us from Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, where she has held various positions with their national or local organization for the past 19 years.

Read Joi's full profile and discover the experience and expertise she'll bring to Girls Inc.

Show Off Your Support of Girls Inc!

By Jennifer Baltz, Americorps VISTA E-Communications Specialist

Show your support for Girls Inc. with this dynamic badge and desktop wallpaper!

Add this widget to your blog, webpage, Facebook or MySpace profile, or anywhere you can add the Flash or JavaScript code! It's easy! You can also download the "Proud Supporter" desktop wallpaper. Just find the right resolution for your computer screen, download the image file, and set it as your desktop wallpaper!

Girls Inc.'s News You Can Use

Calling New Volunteers!
Busy, busy, busy! Aren't we all so busy? We all get overwhelmed around the holidays and always make those resolutions to do more for others after the first of the year. We have lots of volunteer opportunities beginning in January and have conveniently scheduled our next training for Dec. 13. If you are looking to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold in the New Year, apply today and sign up for training before the holiday madness takes over! Learn more about program facilitator opportunities.

Help Girls "Work It Out!"
Have you ever seen the movie "Mean Girls?" Did you find yourself analyzing the relationships and wondering why some girls were just so mean? Girls Inc. has asked those same questions and is proud to offer a program called "Work It Out" to empower girls to acknowledge girl on girl violence as hurtful, analyze the contexts that shape these behaviors, and learn skills for navigating conflict. Discover more about "Work It Out" and other upcoming programs for girls.

"Tell A Girl" Tip of the Month

Tell a girl to walk right up to fear and show it who's the stronger of the two.
If you take a moment to tell a girl all the remarkable things you see in her, not only will she believe you, she'll also start to believe in herself.

Girls Incorporated® of Indianapolis Says Farewell to Two Key Staff

By Pat Wachtel, CEO

Director of Programs Carmen Rodriguez will spend her last day at Girls Incorporated® of Indianapolis on Thursday, Nov. 13 as she makes plans to join her husband Alex in Florida. Although the date is not yet certain, Bevin Prater, vice president and chief operating officer, will also be leaving before year end as she and her husband make plans to relocate to Texas. Because they are so strong, smart, and bold, no one could seriously label Bevin or Carmen a "trailing spouse." However, that is reasonable shorthand for the major life transitions that they will begin very soon.

Girls Incorporated® of Indianapolis is grateful to Bevin and Carmen for their amazing contributions of time and talent to this organization. Words cannot truly express how much we will miss them! Read more about their future plans and lasting legacies. Look for information about Girls Inc.'s new leadership staff, including our new vice president and chief operating officer, in next month's enewsletter!

What Does "Beauty" Mean to You?

By Ashley Crockett-Lohr, Special Events Coordinator

Girls Inc.'s participants have some nontraditional ideas about beauty. When we asked girls attending our recent summer camp what the word "beauty" means to them, they were full of ideas! Here is a sampling of their thoughts:
Alana (age 14) said, "My definition of beauty is to express myself through the things I love doing."
Chandler (age 9) said "Beauty to me is not how you look. It is about learning to thank your body and be healthy."
Autumn (age 13) said, "Beauty to me is loving yourself, taking care of yourself, and knowing you're cute without being airbrushed. It's feeling strong when sad and hard times come."
Watch other Girls Inc. participants redefine beauty in this short video!

Girls Connect with Rolls-Royce Engineers at Lunch Bunch

By Dana Bushouse, Coordinator of Volunteer and Intern Recruitment

On Oct. 20, Girls Inc. teamed up with Rolls-Royce and the Society of Women Engineers for a Lunch Bunch program teaching girls about careers in engineering. Volunteer mentors shared their careers and taught girls how to work as a team to build model helicopters comprised of candy and toothpicks!
Discover opportunities for your company to partner with Girls Inc. and teach girls about your exciting and nontraditional careers!

Are You Friends with Brianna Bold?

By Jennifer Baltz, Americorps VISTA E-Communications Specialist

Our strong, smart, and bold girls are now on Facebook! Show your support for Girls Inc. and stay involved by becoming a Facebook friend with Brianna Bold, one of our strong, smart, and bold girls. After logging in or signing up as a member, you can read Brianna's profile and leave comments or questions on her wall. Brianna also has lots of photos, videos, and Girls Inc. news for you to explore. Brianna shares on her profile that she enjoys self-defense classes, spreading media literacy, inspiring others to appreciate and accept their bodies. One of her favorite quotes is from Louisa May Alcott: "I'm not afraid of storms, for I'm learning to sail my ship." You can also keep up to date with us on Facebook by visiting our Fan Page.
If you missed our past two enewsletters, you can catch up with Sierra Strong and Serena Smart today!

Girls Inc.'s News You Can Use

Launch Party for Girls Inc.'s New Portal Technology
On Nov. 11, Girls Inc. will premiere the state-of-the-art extranet sites that are designed to facilitate communication between our organization and valued volunteers and community partners. Join us downtown at the Girls Inc. National Resource Center from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. to be among the first to test out this technology!

"By The Women, For The Girls" Campaign Kickoff
For girls today, growing up is like putting together a puzzle, and not every girl has all of the pieces she needs. Girls Inc. provides essential pieces to help each girl complete her puzzle, such as a puzzle piece of personal empowerment, another puzzle piece for a strong sense of self. What piece of the puzzle do you have to contribute to today's girls? What piece did you wish someone had provided for you when you were growing up? This month, Girls Inc. will launch an e-campaign to bring together a network of women virtually, in support of local girls. To participate in the campaign kickoff, contact Ashley Crockett-Lohr.

"Tell A Girl" Tip of the Month

Tell a girl her most attractive feature is her self-confidence.
If you take a moment to tell a girl all the remarkable things you see in her, not only will she believe you, she'll also start to believe in herself.

Girls Express Bold Voices in Special Election!

By Annie Farrell, Americorps VISTA Fund Development Specialist

This summer, girls at Girls Incorporated® of Indianapolis's summer camp discussed policies and issues that matter to them while learning about and engaging in the political process. Following these debates, girls registered and voted on the topics that they discussed. Hot topics that girls debated were:

• Should the minimum age to obtain a driver's license be lowered to 9 years old?


• Should elementary schools require 150 minutes of physical education per week?


• Should school lunch menus only offer healthy options?


• Should all students be required to wear school uniforms?


• Should Indiana require that school notices be written in Spanish and English?


• Should Indiana establish an Equal Pay Day to protect the right of women to receive equal pay for equal work?

Watch girls discuss the political process and cast their votes in our new YouTube video!

Girls Incorporated® of Indianapolis encourages everyone to express their own bold voices and cast a vote - for whichever candidate they choose - in the November 4 election!

Volunteers Enjoy Strong, Smart, and Bold Dishes!

By Annie Farrell, Americorps VISTA Fund Development Specialist

In September, Girls Inc. volunteers and guests tasted strong, smart, and boldSM dishes at our Whole Flavors volunteer appreciation event! The event was hosted by the Carmel Whole Foods Market, and registered dietitian Annessa Chumbley of Flourish! demonstrated how to "bring out the strong, smart and boldSM" in everyday cooking by preparing three dishes based on Girls Inc's mission of inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and boldSM! Check out her recipes for the featured dishes:

STRONG Cozy Curried Pumpkin Stew
SMART Squishy Chocolate Cake
BOLD Black Bean and Corn Quinoa

The Whole Foods event was the second in our ongoing series of appreciation events where Girls Inc. celebrates the volunteers who are key to the implementation of our mission. At these events, volunteers have the opportunity to interact with each other and share their experiences while enjoying fun activities. Get involved in upcoming volunteer opportunities! Watch for news of the next volunteer appreciation event in January 2009!

Are You Friends with Serena Smart?

By Jennifer Baltz, Americorps VISTA E-Communications Specialist

Our strong, smart, and bold^SM girls are now on Facebook! Show your support for Girls Inc. and stay involved by becoming a Facebook friend with Serena Smart, one of our strong, smart, and bold girls. After logging in or signing up as a member, you can read Serena's profile and leave comments or questions on her wall. Serena also has lots of photos, videos, and Girls Inc. news for you to explore. Serena shares on her profile that she enjoys being herself, focusing on science, math, and technology, economic literacy, and safe babysitting. One of her favorite quotes is from Mary Catherine Bateson: "We are not what we know but what we are willing to learn." You can also keep up to date with us on Facebook by visiting our Fan Page. Last month, we featured Sierra Strong in our enewsletter. Look for Brianna Bold's profile in next month's edition!

Featured Supporter - The Indianapolis Foundation

By Ashley Crockett-Lohr, Special Events Coordinator

The Indianapolis Foundation recently awarded Girls Inc. a $75,000 grant for our innovative "hub" model of program delivery. In 2007, this model increased the number of girls served with our direct programs from a few hundred to 1,100!
Since 1916, The Indianapolis Foundation, a CICF affiliate, has ensured the quality of life in Marion County, Indiana continuously improves, and through their generosity to Girls Inc., more girls in more neighborhoods will benefit from our programming than ever before! Thank you to The Indianapolis Foundation for their support of our mission to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and boldSM!

Girls Inc's "Go Green" October Tip

Always turn off your computer monitor when you leave your desk. Even screen savers consume energy. Turn off your monitor to conserve power. Better yet, shut down your computer and turn it off at the power strip.

Greater Impact for Girls...

by Maddy Boesen, Americorps VISTA Evaluation Specialist

This fall, Girls Inc. is excited to work together with two partner schools to pilot “cohort” programming, in an attempt to enhance girls’ experience in an outreach setting. A typical cohort will be a group of 15-20 girls, who over the course of the school year will participate together in three or more Girls Incorporated programs. This model will allow girls to build positive friendships, be empowered as a group to support each other, and receive a more in-depth Girls Inc. experience.
This bold new programming system requires an innovative way of measuring our impact. To gauge our impact, we will be interviewing the people who know the girls best; parents and educators, about how the girls’ knowledge, skills and behavior change over the course of the school year. Stay tuned for updates on our journey into this exciting new territory!

Volunteers - Get Ready, Set, Go!

by Dana Bushouse, Volunteer Coordinator

If you are ready to start inspiring Indianapolis girls to be strong, smart, and bold, here is your chance! We will be holding our next hands-on and interactive program facilitators training on Saturday, October 11th from 9am until 4pm. Please contact Dana with questions or to see how you can join Girls Inc. as a volunteer, sharing your skills and experience with the next generation!

WFYI - Speaking of Women's Health

by Ashley Crockett-Lohr, Special Events Coordinator

WFYI and Speaking of Women’s Health presented Girls Incorporated® of Indianapolis with a generous $5,000 grant at their September 12th Speaking of Women’s Health Conference. Since 1998, WFYI has awarded Community Investment Grants to local organizations with a focus on enhancing the health of Central Indiana women and their families. This gift was given in support of our Bold, Empowered Girls programs, which teach girls how to keep themselves safe, while empowering them to resist gender stereotypes and negative messages they encounter in the media. Thank you to WFYI and Speaking of Women’s Health for their support of our mission to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold!

Are you Friends with Sierra Strong?

by Jennifer Baltz, Americorps VISTA E-Communications Specialist

Our strong, smart, and bold girls are now on Facebook! Show your support for Girls Inc. and stay involved by becoming a Facebook friend with Sierra Strong, one of our strong, smart, and bold girls. After logging in or signing up as a member, you can read Sierra’s profile and leave comments or questions on her wall. Sierra also has lots of photos, videos, and Girls Inc. news for you to explore. Sierra shares on her profile that she enjoys being herself, focusing on health and wellness, sisterhood, and communication. One of her favorite quotes from Eleanor Roosevelt is "Remember no one can make you feel inferior without your consent." You can also keep up to date with us on Facebook by visiting our Fan Page. Look for more information about our other two strong, smart, and bold girl profiles in upcoming enewsletters!

2007 Annual Report

Our 2007 annual report is now available online! We want to take this opportunity to thank the many individuals and groups who invested their time, talent, and treasure to support essential programs for girls. If you notice any errors or omissions in the report, please contact Ashley Crockett-Lohr at 283-0086 ext. 1022.

Touchstone Highlights

The Votes Are In – “We Vote: 88 in ’08” Touchstone Awards a Success!


Special Election


On August 6th, over 400 friends of Girls Inc. gathered at The Westin Indianapolis to celebrate the 2008 Touchstone Awards. Upon arriving at The Westin, guests were immersed in a special election hosted by Girls Inc.’s summer camp participants during their exhibit showcase. Guests were asked to exercise their right to vote by choosing their favorite exhibit.

Exhibits were themed around Girls Inc.’s “Girls’ Bill of Rights” which include such statements as girls have the right to be themselves and resist gender stereotypes, girls have the right to accept and appreciate their bodies, and girls have the right to have confidence in themselves and be safe in the world.



Thanks to our guests, over 1,130 votes were cast. After tabulating the votes, girls have the right to prepare for interesting work and economic independence was declared the winner!







Luncheon and Awards Ceremony


Co-chairs Christel DeHaan and Marni McKinney distributed Touchstone Awards to honorees Susan Brooks, Martha Lamkin, Judy O’Bannon, and Yvonne Perkins. Emcee Angela Ganote introduced each honoree with an anecdote about their political experience, and the four honorees delivered remarks to the guests and girls in attendance about political involvement, career successes, and striving to be strong, smart, and bold. Thanks to everyone who attended the 2008 Touchstone Awards and who cast their vote in our special election! View a slideshow of photos from the luncheon or to read more about the event.

2009 Save The Date

Please save the date for the 2009 Touchstone Awards luncheon and 40th Anniversary Celebration on August 6, 2009. We hope to see you there!

Girl Spotlight

Thirty girls spent two weeks constructing and decorating two soap box derby cars at Camp GEMS, a math and science specialty camp. On July 18th, the girls took their newly built cars for a race! Both teams faced off on a hot and thrilling day at Wilbur Shaw Derby Hill, the longest track in the country (1000 feet).

A supportive crowd of parents, siblings, donors, sponsors, and Girls Inc staff came to support the girls and watch an exciting event. Also in the crowd cheering the girls on was Sarah Mack, the national Soap Box Derby champion! As the sun got hotter, the heats got closer. Everyone wondered which team would win. Team 2 eventually won and the individual girl with the fastest time was Brita with an astonishing finish of 31 seconds! Congratulations to Brita, as well as all the girls who participated in Camp GEMS!

AmeriCorps*VISTA Highlight

Lizzy Bartlet began her year of service with Girls Inc. as an Americorps VISTA expansion specialist in June 2008. She is a 2008 graduate of DePauw University in Greencastle, IN where she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology. A true lady, Lizzy enjoys watching classic movies such as Casablanca, Gone With the Wind, and An Affair to Remember. Lizzy’s year of service will consist of researching and helping to develop a plan for offering girl programs across Hendricks, Boone and Hamilton counties.

Are you connected to a school principal, executive director for a youth organization, head librarian, youth sports coach or similar person in Hendricks, Boone or Hamilton counties? Lizzy would love to chat more about who you know and what you know about youth in those counties, contact her at ebartelt@girslincindy.org.

Support Girls Inc. by Shopping!

Macy’s Shop for a Cause

On Saturday, September 20, Macy’s will hold its annual Shop for a Cause day. Support Girls Inc. of Indianapolis by purchasing a $5 Macy’s shopping pass – we keep 100% of the proceeds! Shoppers purchase $5 vouchers from Girls Inc; Girls Inc. keeps all proceeds, and shoppers with the voucher save 10-20% on most items and have the chance to win a $500 Macy’s shopping spree!
To purchase a Macy’s voucher, visit our website or contact us at 283-0086, ext. 1022 or acrockettlohr@girlsincindy.org. To benefit Girls Inc., you must purchase the voucher ahead of time.



JCPenney's Day of Giving Back

On Sunday, September 28, JCPenney is holding a Day of Giving Back fundraiser and sale. All stores will sell a $5 coupon for the two weeks leading up to their special sale, and all money from coupons sold at the JCPenney at 86th and Michigan Rd. will go to Girls Inc. of Indianapolis! Visit JCPenney next month for great sales and to support a strong, smart, and bold cause!

Join Us at the 2008 Touchstone Awards

Please join us on Wednesday, August 6 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at The Westin Indianapolis for the 2008 Touchstone Awards!

"We Vote: 88 in '08!"
As 2008 is the 88th year since the nineteenth amendment was ratified – and is also a major election year – Girls Inc. will celebrate women’s right to vote at the Touchstone Awards with our “We Vote: 88 in ’08!” theme. At the luncheon, we will commemorate trailblazing suffragists like Susan B. Anthony and Alice Paul whose battle earned this right for all women and we will honor four Indianapolis women – Susan Brooks, Martha Lamkin, Judy O’Bannon, and Yvonne Perkins -- who are trailblazers themselves.

We Voted -- Now It's Your Turn!
Earlier this summer, Girls Inc. hosted a mock election where girls cast ballots for/against a youth-related issue. These first-time voters checked in with voter registration, marked their vote in a private booth, and submitted their ballot for tabulation. Now it’s your turn! Guests at the Touchstone Awards will have the opportunity to support our summer camp participants by casting votes for their favorite exhibit during the girl exhibit showcase. The exhibit showcase kicks off at 11:00 a.m. and will close promptly at 11:45 for lunch. Don’t miss what many say is their favorite part of the Touchstone Awards – the chance to interact with our strong, smart, and boldSM girls!

Thank you to the leading sponsors of the 2008 Touchstone Awards!

Running Mate Sponsors

• Christel DeHaan Family Foundation, in honor of the children and families of Christel House International



• Citizens Gas & Coke Utility



• Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana



• Lilly Endowment, Inc.



• Lumina Foundation for Education



• Roche

Party Chair Sponsors

• Baker & Daniels LLP



• Eugene & Marilyn Glick Family Foundation



• The Kroger Company



• The National Bank of Indianapolis



• State Farm

Want to attend?
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are still available!
Purchase tickets here, or contact Ashley Crockett-Lohr at (317) 283-0086 ext. 1022 or at acrockettlohr@girlsincindy.org for more information.

Girl Spotlight

Simone Smith – Junior Counselor

Simone joined Girls Inc. in June 2008 as a junior counselor for the eight-week summer camp. She is a rising senior at Broad Ripple High School, and she is involved in orchestra, dance team, volleyball, and musical theatre in school. Simone attended Girls Inc.’s summer camp from 2000-2004. Her favorite colors of pink and green are also the colors of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, which she hopes to pledge while in college.

Deborah Randall – Junior Counselor

Deborah joined Girls Inc. in June 2008 as a junior counselor for the eight-week summer camp. She is a rising sophomore at Warren Central High School, and she hopes to one day get her Ph.D. in psychology. Deborah attended summer camp at Girls Inc. in 2006 and 2007. A true political junkie, Deborah is fascinated by the government and this year’s presidential election.

Girls Helping Girls

Girls Inc. members Takeisha Carey, Deborah Randall, and Courtney Clark developed a plan to help other girls within their community. Together they applied for, and received, a Youth As Resources Grant to enhance the facilities at the Garrard House. The Garrard House is a group home for girls 14- 21 years of age on the near east side of Indianapolis.
After touring the Garrard House, the Girls Inc. ladies realized that new linens were needed for the bedrooms and also noted that the House did not have a functional recreation room. “As a girl, your bedroom is your personal place to express yourself and your emotions…. having an area to converse with other people is equally important,” the girls explained.
Therefore, with the monies that they received from the grant, the girls purchased new linens, pillows, comforters, alarm clocks, trashcans, and desk lamps for the bedrooms. The girls also took on the task of revamping the basement into a recreational room complete with bookshelves, games, bean bags, new furniture covers, a vanity area, and a group designed mural.
On behalf of the girls at Girls Incorporated of Indianapolis, we would like to publicly thank Annie Smith and the Youth As Resources team for the youth grant. As one of the many organizations chosen during the 41st cycle, we consider it a privilege and an honor.

Americorps VISTA Spotlight

The Americorps VISTA project will develop operational systems for Girls Inc. that will support the sustainability and efficiency of our new outreach model of service delivery, which is based on the development of neighborhood hubs. Over a three-year period, this project will engage volunteers to expand our educational programming to Central Indiana girls in four counties, preparing them to achieve financial self-sufficiency and escape poverty.


Maddy Boesen – Evaluation Specialist VISTA Maddy began her year of service with Girls Inc. as the evaluation specialist VISTA in June 2008. She is a 2008 graduate of Ball State University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in anthropology. Maddy is admittedly quite the whiz with a spool of yarn — she enjoys both knitting and crocheting in her spare time.

While working with Girls Inc., Maddy will focus on two main initiatives:
Develop qualitative/quantitative measurements to assess the effectiveness of the agency’s program model
Develop qualitative/quantitative measurements to assess the effectiveness of the agency’s volunteer instructor model

Girls Inc. Transparency Taskforce

In February, Girls Incorporated vice chairwoman Nancy McMillan led a task force to look at our public accountability and transparency. Board members Lisa McKinney- Goldner, Caroline Altman-Smith, and Harolyn Watts assisted in the review. The conclusion of this group was that we needed one page on our website where someone could find financial information, program outcomes, and our new Statement of Ethics approved by the board in June. Please click here to see more of their work!

JCPenney Afterschool Round-Up

When you shop at JCPenney between August 6 and 17 and round your purchase up to the next whole dollar, the JCPenney Afterschool Fund will donate the difference to Girls Incorporated of Indianapolis to provide children in this community with access to life-enriching afterschool programs.So, from August 6 through August 17, remember to Round-Up for kids at JCPenney!