Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region receives Anthem Whole Health Heroes award for providing girls with resources to succeed
By Anthem Blue Cross
Oct 25, 2024
Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region been selected by Anthem Blue Cross as a 2024 Whole Health Hero. The Anthem Whole Health Hero is an award given to organizations that have demonstrated innovation and leadership in building the whole health of the Capital region. Read on to learn more about Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region in a Q&A with Amari Duncan, director of philanthropic impact.
What is the mission statement of your organization?
Duncan: Our mission at Girls Inc. is to inspire all girls to be strong, smart and bold. Through innovative programs, advocacy and mentorship, we equip girls with the knowledge, skills and confidence to navigate life’s challenges and succeed on their own terms. We are dedicated to fostering a community that supports and uplifts girls as they strive to achieve their dreams.
Our goals
Duncan: Our goal at Girls Inc. is to expand our resource base so that every girl knows she can turn to us for support, guidance, and opportunities. We aim to be a trusted resource, helping girls navigate their futures with confidence, resilience, and purpose, ensuring they have the tools to succeed in every aspect of life.
Our history
Duncan: Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region began as the Schenectady Girls Club in 1937, with Albany Girls Club following in 1961. In 2001, the clubs merged to create a regional organization. Today, we proudly serve over 150 girls daily across Albany, Schenectady, Saratoga, and Rensselaer counties, offering award-winning, research-based programs at our central locations in Albany, Schenectady, and Troy.
Our services
Duncan: Girls Inc. offers free afterschool STEM programs, a summer fun camp, and a five-year career and college readiness program for girls ages 5-18 throughout the Capital region. We empower girls with the skills and confidence they need to excel in school, pursue fulfilling careers, and become strong, independent women. Our programs are designed to inspire and equip girls to achieve their fullest potential, creating lasting positive impacts in their communities.
Our impact on the community
Duncan: Girls Inc. creates a ripple effect of positive change in the community by empowering girls to reach their full potential. Our programs build confidence, foster academic and career success, and inspire leadership, resulting in girls who are prepared to break barriers and contribute meaningfully to society. By nurturing strong, smart, and bold girls, we help create a future generation of leaders who uplift their communities and drive social progress.
Our upcoming fundraisers
- Bold Steps: A Girls Inc. a fashion show fundraiser on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at 5 p.m. at Key Hall at Proctors, presented by GE Verona’s Women’s Network.
- Girls Inc. Strong, Smart and Bold Awards on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 6 p.m. at TEC-SMART, celebrating our girls, volunteers, and partners.
Other ways to support us
Duncan: Girls Inc. offers group and individual volunteer opportunities, including mentoring roles for career women through our Council of Women for Girls. Volunteers can lead workshops, share career insights, or support our events, directly impacting the lives of the girls we serve. These opportunities allow volunteers to empower the next generation by sharing their expertise, time, and encouragement, helping girls build confidence and achieve their goals.
At Girls Inc., we invite you and your company to join us in shaping the future by empowering the next generation. Whether through mentorship, volunteering, or partnership, there are countless ways to get involved and make a difference.
Top executive
Ashli Fragomeni - CEO - [email protected]
Board members
- Marcia Alazraki
- Anzala Alozie
- Kate Bender
- Mekkah Bergeron
- Teresa Casey
- Alyssa Lovelace
- Marissa Martini
- Jennifer MacPhee
- Kelly McNamee
- Nicki Messina
- Kelly Osterlitz
- Dr. Deb Privott
- Jess Rubino
- Susan Zongrone
- Caitlin Montalvo
- Bria Barnes-Coleman
- Nicholle Gotham
- Brad Hopper
- John Reschovsky
What geographic areas does your organization serve?
Duncan: Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region serves girls in afterschool and summer programming in Albany, Rensselaer County and Schenectady County, with new 2025 expansion efforts in Saratoga and Ulster County. Through our Eureka! Program which is a five-year career and college readiness program, we serve over 75 girls a year coming from five counties across the region.