Originally published November 22, 2022 as part of a series by Special Contributor and local Philanthropist Ellen Andre focusing on local non-profits

What you might not know about Girls, Inc. of Greater Lowell is that they celebrated their 105th anniversary this year! Incredible milestone and one that few organizations can sing about. Their growth over the years has been steadfast inspiring girls to be Strong, Smart and Bold through direct service and advocacy. They serve girls in the Greater Lowell community, from diverse ethnic, racial and socio-economic backgrounds.

Their programming in partnership with schools, corporations, and 77 centers throughout the country, focuses on the development of the whole girl. A combination of long-lasting relationships formed in an all-girl, pro-girl environment. Girls, Inc. utilizes research based programming that equips girls with the skills to navigate through economic, gender and social barriers and to grow up as independent individuals.

It’s incredible that this organization is still going strong in teaching girls their rights and helping them live independent lives. Many girls that used to be a part of their programs grow up to be leaders in their communities. An example of this is their Executive Director, Bopha Malone, who is an alum of Girls, Inc! She is truly a product of good mentorship and someone who has benefitted from their resources.

Girls, Inc. offers hope, opportunities, love, guidance and support to help girls overcome their fears and barriers. Girls that are part of the program tend to have better grades, a more positive body image and are more hopeful about the future.

Like most organizations, Girls, Inc. has new goals and objectives. Currently they are in the midst of a capital campaign to support their expansion programs and ideas.  They’d like to re-establish their teen program in the next couple of months. An admirable goal, they’d like 50% of their budget to be self-produced.

They also plan to expand, allowing them to do more and rent space.  Their expansion will include a “makerspace” and a Community Leadership Equity and Innovation Center which would allow them to help more girls focus on STEM programs and become civically-engaged.

Some of their current challenges include getting into their new space as quickly as possible but other organizations are also doing the same so there are competing needs. They are working with some of their younger staff on training and development.

They are expanding their campus to serve more girls and to help girls be Stronger, Smarter and Bolder! You can help them reach their goals by contributing to their capital campaign. Be part of history!

For more information contact Bopha Malone at (781)913-4976 or BMalone@girlsinclowell.org or visit www.girlsinclowell.org

To donate: online donations  or choose capital campaign on their website. Checks can be made to:

Girls, Inc of Greater Lowell
220 Worthen St.
Lowell, MA  01852

Please specify your donation on your check: general, capital campaign, a specific program you’d like to support.