Social-Emotional Learning
This summer, our girls explored emotions, self-confidence, and kindness through engaging sessions designed to empower and support them
Bullying & Cyberbullying
Bullying happens in person and online, and both can deeply affect confidence and well-being. In this session, girls learn how to recognize, respond to, and safely report harmful behavior.
Mental Health
Mental health is just as important as physical health and impacts how we think, feel, and act. This session encourages awareness, self-reflection, and seeking support when needed.
Positive Body Image
Every body is unique and worthy of respect, care, and celebration. Girls explore ways to build confidence and challenge unrealistic beauty standards.
Stress Management & Self-Care
Stress is a normal part of life, but managing it helps protect overall well-being. Girls explore practical self-care strategies to recharge and build resilience.
Kindness & Friendship
Friendship is built on empathy, respect, and support through both easy and hard moments. Girls practice communication skills that strengthen healthy and meaningful connections.
Cultural Compassion
Understanding and respecting different backgrounds strengthens empathy and community. Girls learn how culture shapes identity and how to celebrate diversity with openness and respect.
Emotion Regulation
Big feelings like anger, sadness, and excitement are natural, but learning how to manage them makes a difference. Girls gain tools to pause, reflect, and respond in healthy ways.
Life Skills
Our girls gained practical knowledge and inspiration from accomplished professionals who shared their expertise and personal journeys.
Featured Mentors & Sessions:
Rev. Dr. Malva
Wise-White – Minister, Mentor, Educator, Holistic Health Coach
Geraldine Fields
National Bank Examine
Eleise Richards
Founder, Experience The Legacy
Dr. Lendra
Author, Nurse, Healthcare Wellness Coach
Onekia Grier
Author, I would if I could
Taliah Givens
Given to Serve, LLC
Rhona Vega
Founder, Experiences & Opportunities, with Guest Professionals
Corwin Conner
Money & Me: Smart, Strong, and Ready!
Dr. Ketsia Sadler
College CAFE (Consulting and Financial Education)
Coach Doug & Coach Roy
Tennis Instruction
Civic Engagement
Every Tuesday, our girls explored what it means to be active, informed, and compassionate members of their community.
Visits included
- Oasis
- City Hall
- Fire Department
- Board of Elections
- CUMAC
- Surrogate’s Office
- Servant’s Heart Ministry – Great Falls Center
- Paterson Police Department (Community Affairs)
Fun Field Trips
Our girls had an unforgettable summer exploring some of the most exciting and educational destinations around New Jersey and beyond. Each trip sparked curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning outside the classroom.
Field trips included:
- Liberty Science Center
- American Dream Mall
- Hasbro Game Room
- Mirror Maze
- Lego Land
- New Jersey Botanical Gardens
- New Jersey State House
- Drumthwacket (NJ Governor’s Residence)
- US Open Fan Week
Middle School Programs
The Girl Goals Summer Program is committed to creating unique opportunities for middle school girls that extend beyond our weekly programming. For Summer 2025, we designed exclusive enrichment activities focused on leadership, cultural exploration, career readiness, and personal growth—offered at no additional cost—to inspire, educate, and empower.
As participants in the “I Am Worth the Investment” Workshop – Girls explored how extracurricular activities support their goals and began building a Personal Achievement Tree to visualize pathways to success.
Animal Science Exploration at Garret Mountain Equestrian Center – Hands-on horse care, grooming, training, and pony rides.
New Jersey Botanical Gardens Photography Adventure – Girls practiced capturing nature’s beauty through photography.
Speed Networking Career Event – Short conversations with women across diverse careers to build confidence and expand visions of the future.
Planetarium Experience @ P-Tech – STEM-focused exploration of stars, constellations, and the universe.
KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot – Cultural dining experience celebrating global cuisines and friendship.
College Café: “Know More, Pay Less” with Dr. Ketsia Sandler – Workshop on college planning, scholarships, and saving strategies.
Themed Weeks
Each week offered a unique theme that guided activities, learning, and creative expression.
Themed Weeks
- Week 1: Music Fest
- Week 2: Creative Queen
- Week 3: STEM Stars
- Week 4: Photography Basics
- Week 5: Boss Moves
- Week 6: Builders and Engineers
- Week 7: Culinary Passport
- Week 8: Change Maker Challenge
Creative Moment
Girls explored their imagination and hands-on creativity with projects like bracelet-making and dollhouses.
Swimming
Our girls stayed active and confident in the water, enjoying swimming sessions twice every week.
Ice Cream Socials
Every Friday, girls came together to celebrate the week with sweet treats and laughter.
Sisterhood
Throughout the summer, girls built lasting friendships, shared stories, and simply enjoyed time together in a supportive environment.
Girl Goals Summer participants reimagined Passaic County’s “I Voted” stickers by creating original designs, reviewing their peers’ work, and voting on the concepts they liked best. The winning designs were used during the Fall 2025 elections and formally recognized by the Passaic County Commissioners.
