By Leah Garlock | Executive Director
This year, we took a slower start with our Girls Empowerment and Mentorship (GEM) Program as we focus on building the next phase with purpose and intention.
Over the past two years, we have piloted the program with two children’s homes in Korea. During that time, girls participated in workshops at the homes and joined special trips to Seoul and Busan. These experiences introduced them to new careers, expanded educational opportunities, and helped build important social and emotional learning skills.
Now, as we enter our third year, we are focusing on strengthening the program’s foundation so it can create a deeper and more sustainable impact.
Soon, we will meet with children’s home staff to better understand the needs of the girls and identify gaps where GEM can support them most. Some of the ideas we are exploring include:
• New career development and life-skills workshops for girls aging out of the social welfare system
• A refreshed version of last year’s summer camp focused on healing and rejuvenation between the school year, including healthy eating, exercise, and mindfulness
• Expanded technology and science learning opportunities
We are also expanding the GEM English Reading Workshop from last year and collaborating with the new U.S. Fulbright Korea ETA cohort.
These conversations and plans are helping us build a program that supports girls not just for a moment, but for the long journey ahead.
Thank you for supporting opportunities that help youth grow in confidence, curiosity, and possibility. More updates and adventures to come.
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