STEM Programs Give Girls the Chance to Explore
For many girls, summer can mean missed opportunities to learn, explore, and discover new interests. For families already balancing tight budgets, educational field trips and enrichment programs are often out of reach.
That’s why Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia created its STEM Summer series, three hands-on learning experiences designed to spark curiosity while removing the financial barriers that often prevent girls from participating.
As a funded Community Investment partner of United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley, Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia provided transportation, meals, and free admission so girls could spend their summer exploring science in ways that simply aren’t possible in a classroom.
Throughout the summer, they launched model rockets at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center, discovered ecosystems and composting at the Columbus Botanical Garden, and explored butterflies, birds of prey, and environmental science at Callaway Gardens.
Along the way, their excitement was contagious.
“I didn’t know the sun was a star!”
“I want to make compost for my dad’s garden!”
“I loved the birds of prey and learning how they hunt.”
Curiosity Can Change the Way a Girl Sees Herself
The experiences gave the girls much more than a fun summer activity.
For some, it was their first visit to a science center, botanical garden, or natural beach. They asked thoughtful questions, took on leadership roles, and began imagining futures they may not have considered before.
One Girl Scout reflected on the experience by saying:
“I’m glad my mama took off work to volunteer—she learned a lot too!”
That shared experience highlights another important outcome. STEM Summer didn’t just encourage girls to learn—it created opportunities for families to learn together, strengthening confidence and curiosity across generations.
As the organization shared: “When girls are given the chance to explore, they rise.”
Sometimes all it takes is one opportunity to help a girl see the world—and herself—a little differently.
Strong Communities Are Built Together
Behind every impact story is a network of people and organizations working together to create lasting change.
As a funded Community Investment partner, Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia equips girls with leadership, life, and STEM skills through hands-on experiences that build confidence, encourage curiosity, and prepare them for future success.
United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley invests in trusted nonprofit partners with proven results because lasting change happens when we strengthen the organizations already making a difference every day.
When you support United Way, your investment stays local, helping ensure girls across the Chattahoochee Valley have opportunities to learn, grow, and discover what’s possible.
Meet Two Girl Scouts
Left: JaKaisian (center) entered middle school feeling shy and uncertain after experiencing bullying. Through Girl Scouts, she found encouragement, built confidence, and continued to grow as a leader. Now a second-year Cadette, she recently summed up her progress with a smile: “I’ve got this, Ms. Wanda.”
Right: Alaya began the school year feeling guarded and struggling both socially and academically. Since joining Girl Scouts, her mother and troop leaders have seen her confidence grow alongside her enthusiasm for the program. Today, she’s embracing new opportunities and building positive relationships as a new Cadette.
