About Girls Inc. 

Girls Inc. was founded in 1864 to serve girls and young women who were experiencing upheaval in the aftermath of the Civil War. Across the decades, we adapted to meet the specific environmental challenges facing girls and young women, always working in partnership with schools and communities, and guided by our founders’ fundamental belief in the inherent potential of each girl. Woven into those early girls’ clubs are the same core values of Girls Inc. today: the importance of creating a safe gathering place for girls to learn and to share in a sisterhood, and a strong premise that each girl can develop her own capacities, self- confidence, and grow up healthy, educated, and independent.

Local Affiliate History 

Girls Inc. of Monroe County started as the Girls Club of Monroe County in 1974 and incorporated as Girls Inc. of Monroe County in 1991. The organization is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that equips girls to navigate gender, economic, and social barriers and look toward a future where girls and women are empowered and part of an equitable society. 

Since 1991, our affiliate has provided vital educational Girls Inc. programming and organized sports leagues to help girls develop the values and skills they need to become confident, productive, and responsible adults. Programs and activities were offered in Monroe County School Corporation and Richland Bean Blossom schools, at our main center and gymnasium, and with other agencies throughout Monroe County.

Girls Inc. of Monroe County was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, staff did not have a safe way to deliver programming. This forced the organization to suspend operations and move in a new direction. After completing a needs analysis and working with Girls Inc.’s national organization, it was decided that Girls Inc. of Monroe County would be aquired by sister affiliate, Girls Inc. of Shelbyville & Shelby County. Under a new operations model, Girls Inc. of Monroe County will continue to serve and reach as many girls as possible with impactful, life-changing programming.

Looking forward, Girls Inc. of Monroe County hopes to provide programming in local schools, summer camp, and evening programs. 

Girls Inc. Bill of Rights 

• Girls have a right to be themselves and to resist gender stereotypes.
• Girls have the right to express themselves with originality and enthusiasm.
• Girls have the right to take risks, to strive freely, and to take pride in success.
• Girls have the right to accept and appreciate their bodies.
• Girls have the right to have confidence in themselves & to be safe in the world.
• Girls have the right to prepare for interesting work and economic independence.