"I learned if I think I can, then I can!"
Alexis T., 12, Summer Camp Participant

"I never knew that everything I have learned through [Girls in the Game] would make me into the person I am today."
Karli B., 22, DePaul University graduate

A PARENT PERSPECTIVE

What Girls in the Game has meant for my Daughter

shared by Luvenia M. mother of Aaliyah, 8 years old

I am very grateful to Girls in the Game – they have helped my daughter Aaliyah in so many ways. She says she is grateful, too. They have offered so much, from providing a healthy after school program, helping stress academics, serving her a hot meal each night, giving her gym shoes, a winter coat, and so much more. I would say they have helped bring balance to her life, mine too.

 Before she joined Girls in the Game she came right home from school and did homework. I am older and don’t really get active with her and I also don’t let her go outside any play because it’s not so safe. My sister and her teachers had been telling me she needs to be involved in activities and learn about teamwork and that it would increase her self esteem. And being a part of Girls in the Game has done just that. I would say Aaliyah is a walking testimony to the program. She is happy and learning about her health at the same time.

I am diabetic and have to watch what I eat (which sometimes is harder to do than others). Aaliyah comes home telling me I need to eat more vegetables and that she is eating them, too. This is so wonderful that she is also developing good habits to have a healthy diet. She is learning so much.

I don’t have a car, so if Girls in the Game didn’t offer transportation, Aaliyah would have been missing out on all that she is being exposed to. This program has made a positive impact on our lives and I am thankful.