On Thursday, April 14, 2016, The Girls Inc. had their 20th annual Frolic on the Green Project playhouse at Discovery Green in downtown Houston. The members teamed up with some of Houston’s top architectural firms and had a hands-on approach in every step of the process using their imagination and real life applications for STEM-focused education. The final project: Beautiful well-structural playhouses on display until Friday, April 29.
The Girls Incorporated movement formed in 1864 in Waterbury Connecticut. Today, Girls Inc. is a haven for young girls to connect with each other and build friendships. The mission: Inspire all girls to be strong, smart and bold through educational activities and community services that challenge and encourage them to achieve their full potential.
The Houston chapter is one of the 97 affiliates of the national nonprofit youth organization. They serve over one thousand girls a year and have developed over thirty-five collaborations. I had the pleasure of chatting with some of the girls as they shared how they found out about the organization and what they like most about it.
Moriyah Thibodeaux is twelve years old and home schooled. She found out about Girls Inc. through a family friend and has been a part of the organization for about a month. As one of the young ladies who helped to build the playhouses she says she loves being a part of the organization because they encourage her and give her the confidence to do whatever her heart desires.
Girls Inc. members with their built “playhouse”
Linda Knight is nine years old and goes to McCord Elementary. She heard about the organization through her school when she was entering the science rocket contest (the only girl who entered and ranked in the top four out of thousands of children in the United States). She asked her mother for permission to join Girls, Inc. and became a member. What she loves most about her involvement with the organization is the opportunity to take part in creative activities. Her favorite subjects are science and art.
Girls Inc. is a great resource for young ladies to become involved in an awesome organization that helps to build and form new and lasting friendships. For more information about Girls Inc. visit the website: girlsinc-houston.org
* Numerous architectural firms in attendance included Gilban Building Company, Heights Venture Architects LLP, Flour, GSMA, Garcia Design Associates and Dillion Kyle Architects.
Mary Benton served as Mistress of Ceremony and former Mayor Annise Parker as Honorary Chair. Special thanks to Connect the Dots PR.
By Charmaine Hudson
Charmaine Hudson is a freelance writer who resides in Houston, TX.
