In 2009, Girls 4 Science was created out of a need for accessible and affordable science programs for girls of color in Chicago. Its mission is to enrich the lives of girls ages 10 to 18 through early exposure to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The organization focuses on developing skills, confidence, and opportunity awareness that will help girls overcome barriers to pursuing STEM studies and future careers.
Technology plays a key role in workforce readiness by equipping youth with diverse skills and competencies that are critical to success in STEM careers. Girls 4 Science’s flagship program, the Saturday STEM Academy, provides hands-on scientific exploration, field trips, and professional mentorship to young girls of color in underserved communities across the Chicagoland area, especially the South and West sides. High school and middle school students learn from STEM experts on topics ranging from geology and marine biology, to robotics, manufacturing, and agriculture. Recognizing that many of Girls 4 Science’s participants do not have access to technology in their schools or communities, the organization aims to close this gap. To-date, the Saturday STEM Academy has impacted over 3,000 girls of color across Chicago.
The Girls Opportunity Alliance Fund will support the expansion of Girls 4 Science’s Saturday STEM Academy, including the purchase of 3D printers, which will be integrated into their curriculum and reach up to 500 girls annually. The 3D printers will be utilized across the three Saturday STEM Academy locations: Malcolm X City College, Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences, and Joliet Junior College. Girls 4 Science will also purchase Chromebook laptops for program participants at Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences, as the school does not currently provide access to computers. By providing these technologies and creating opportunities for hands-on skills building, girls will gain a greater understanding of complex STEM subjects. Through iterative learning with 3D printing projects, girls will also experience the importance of repetition, continuous feedback and improvement, trial and error, and design refinement.
For more information about Girls 4 Science, please visit the organization’s website and social media pages:
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