Sunday Conversations: Girls Inc.'s Legacy and Vision Under CEO Dr. Gail Burgos

By Leslie Hudgins

SUNDAY CONVERSATIONS

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Girls Inc. is a pillar in the community that has been helping mold the minds of young women for over 70 years by providing amazing resources and opportunities for the young women involved in the program.

Continuing the legacy CEO Dr. Gail Burgos has led Girls Inc. for three years, with a holistic approach to nurturing well-rounded young women. "We've been here in Columbus, providing resources and opportunities for our community daughters," she said. Girls Inc. focuses on helping girls grow academically, mentally, physically, and spiritually, aiming to create well-rounded young ladies

The term "Community Daughters" is relatively new to Girls Inc. It came about when Dr. Burgos was appointed CEO of the organization. She coined the term "Community Daughter" to express her deep connection with the girls in the program. "It wasn't just about my daughters or their friends at the center; it was about nurturing all these girls. When I joined the board, they asked me what Girls Inc. meant to me, and I said, 'I cherish my community, daughters.' It's about all our daughters and how they contribute to caring for our community."

Girls Inc. started back in 1864 to support girls and young women after the Civil War. Over the years, the organization has changed to help with whatever challenges girls face. This is done by creating a safe place for girls to learn, share, and grow into confident, educated, and independent women. Girls Inc. of Columbus and Phenix-Russell was first established in 1952 as the Girls Club of Columbus. It is part of a more extensive network that provides services to more than 145,000 girls in the United States and Canada. More than 1,600 girls from all backgrounds, ages 6 to 18, are served at the two campuses in Columbus, Georgia.

Since the start of Girls Inc., they have helped shape the lives of many successful women in the community. When you visit the facilities, you'll see the wall of fame adorned with the achievements of young women who have thrived through the program. Dr. Burgos says, "This inspires our babies who are now there today to look up and envision who they are to become." One of the inspiring alumni stories includes the journey of Jessica Carter, a WNBA draft pick who attributes her success to Girls Inc.'s support during her formative years.

Cassie Higgins, the Marketing and Development Officer for Girls Inc., says that currently, the organization offers extensive summer programs to keep the girls engaged. Activities include trips to the Atlanta Aquarium and Wild Animal Safari, healthy cooking classes, and gardening. "We're open from 9 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday, providing meals and lots of opportunities for our Community Daughters," Higgins explained.

If you're looking to join Girls Inc. as a Community Daughter, the programs are affordable for everyone. Dr. Burgos assures parents that no girl is turned away because of financial constraints. All young ladies between the ages of six to 18 are welcome. The registration fee is just $25, with a monthly fee of $45. For summer programs, it's $125 per month or $225 for the full two months. We want every girl to have the chance to benefit from our programs.

For more information about Girls Inc. and opportunities to support their mission, visit www.girlsinc-columbus.org.