Swampscott Women Help Girls Grow Strong

Today when Girls, Inc. of Lynn celebrates its 70th anniversary and 25th annual luncheon/fundraiser, Swampscott women will be at the forefront.  

Board President Annalisa Di Palma of Swampscott said the group's longevity, 70 years, is a testament to how it has evolved to meet changing needs. 

Christine Meninno's involvement with Girls, Inc. has evolved, over the past sevral years. The Swampscott mother was an invited guest to the Girls, Inc. annual luncheon three years ago.

"I was so impressed with the dedication of those involved in the program — from the girls to the staff to the donors — that I became a member of the event committee," she said. "The next year I was asked to serve on the Board of Directors as part of the development committee which raises money for the Girls, Inc. programs."

Christine said Girls, Inc. gives many girls, especially those in high-risk underserved populations, a foundation to build confidence to be strong, smart and bold, she said.

Girls start going to Girls, Inc. at age 5 and continue through high school. The programs help them master skills to confront and solve physical, intellectual and emotional challenges.

Programs address math, science, literacy, teen health, and pregnancy and drug abuse prevention. 

Most of the young people the organization serves are from low-income households. Nearly 75 percent live at or below the poverty line, the board president said.

"Despite these odds we are extremely proud that through the combination of our dedicated staff and researched-based programs, an astounding 95 percent of our seniors attend college," Annalisa Di Palma said.

The girls' success benefits them, their families and society in general, Christine Meninno said.

The girls' experiences and actions will resonate through future generations as their children have positive examples they can follow.

Today's luncheon will be from 11:30 to 2 p.m. at the Danversport Yacht Club. 

Latoya Edwards, NECN evening anchor, is mistress of ceremonies. 

She will present the Girl Hero Award recipients with their scholarships – always a highlight of the afternoon.

The president and CEO of Girls Inc. National, Judy Vredenburgh will also be joining the celebration. 

The Girls Inc. of Lynn Chorus will be performing a special anniversary concert.

For more information on how to help Girls, Inc. through sponsorships or donations or otherwise, please contact Pat Tobin at 781-592-9744 ext. 262 or ptobin@girlsinclynn.org.