At GEMS, we provide safe, uplifting spaces where girls can connect, learn, and grow during the important middle school years. Through engaging group sessions, girls strengthen their confidence, build real-life skills, and form supportive friendships that empower them today and in the future.

Group Types & Locations

School-Based Groups:

GEMS partners with participating schools to offer after-school groups just for students enrolled at those schools. Our trained Facilitation Teams visit each school weekly to lead sessions that encourage connection, growth, and fun.

Community-Based Groups:

Open to girls from any school, our community-based groups meet weekly at local community centers throughout Springfield. Each group provides a welcoming, supportive environment where girls can be themselves, build friendships, and thrive together.

Who Can Join:

Girls currently in 7th–8th grade are welcome to participate.

When & Where:

Groups meet weekly at schools and community centers in Springfield, OH.

What Happens in GEMS Groups:

Every GEMS session is interactive, supportive, and designed especially for girls.

Sessions include:

• Honest conversations and peer connection

• Fun activities and hands-on learning

• Opportunities to build confidence and self-worth

• Safe spaces to explore identity and dreams

• Skill-building for real-world success

Our Approach: Girls Lead the Way

At GEMS, girls’ voices, ideas, and leadership guide everything we do.

Whether they are speaking up, setting goals, or cheering each other on,

our girls learn to lead with courage, compassion, and purpose.

Core Focus Areas

In every session, girls develop the confidence, life skills, and resilience

they need to navigate girlhood and young womanhood with strength and pride.

Topics include:

Self-Confidence & Identity Building
Emotional Wellness & Mindfulness
Leadership & Life Skills
Health, Wellness & Self-Care
Career, Education & Goal Setting
Healthy Relationships & Communication
Overcoming Challenges & Building Resilience

A Place for Girls to Connect, Grow, and Lead

No matter which group they join, every girl finds a safe space to build friendships, develop strong character, and grow into the confident young woman she is meant to be.

Empowering Girls to Rise, Lead, and Thrive

Today’s girls face countless pressures and choices that shape who they become. At GEMS, we believe every girl deserves the skills and support to make healthy decisions and grow into her best self.

Through trusted mentorship, real-life learning, and a caring community, we guide girls to develop strong character, avoid risky behaviors, and navigate life with courage and confidence.

The result? Empowered young women ready to lead, inspire, and succeed.