The Fund for Women and Girls continues to create transformative, hands-on experiences that equip young women with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to become engaged civic leaders. Through immersive opportunities like Advocacy in Action on March 8th and a policy discussion with Chester County officials on March 16th, these young advocates are learning how to effect real change in their communities. 

On March 8th, in celebration of International Women’s Day, The Fund hosted Advocacy in Action, an event where high school students engaged directly with state legislators through both formal presentations and informal discussions. Students from The Fund’s Girls Advisory Board and CivicG+ programs, alongside youth from Mighty Writers, and the Hermanitas Club from Kennett High School, delivered thoughtful presentations on issues impacting women and girls, sharing their lived experiences, and making suggestions for policy changes that would positively address these issues. Following the presentations, students and legislators had the opportunity to connect more personally over lunch, fostering deeper conversations and relationship-building in an informal setting. 

“This program is about amplifying student voices and ensuring they have a seat at the table,” said Blake Emmanuel, The Fund’s Director of Advocacy and Programs. “We want young people to see themselves as changemakers and to understand that their voices matter.” 

Elected officials in attendance included Pennsylvania Representatives Chris Pielli and Paul Friel, and Pennsylvania Senators Katie Muth, and Carolyn Comitta. Their attentive and encouraging participation created an engaging environment where students felt heard and valued, allowing for meaningful dialogue with policymakers shaping the future of gender equity in Pennsylvania. 

Building on this momentum, on March 16th, students in The Fund’s CivicG+ program—who have spent months studying the housing crisis in Chester County—met with county officials to discuss homelessness, available services, and the policies shaping local efforts. These young advocates learned how federal and state policies impact county programs and explored solutions with key decision-makers, including: County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz and Josh Maxwell; Chester County Chief Executive Officer, David Byerman; Department of Community Development Director, Dolores Colligan and Department of Human Services Director, Patrick Bokovitz. 

Before engaging in these opportunities, The Fund offers training in advocacy, civic engagement, and leadership, ensuring they are prepared to participate meaningfully in discussions with policymakers. This year, the program has focused on economic stability and government support systems, educational equity, and gender-based violence response policies. 

Through programs like CivicG+, The Fund provides high school girls and gender-expansive students with hands-on experiences in leadership, advocacy, and policy. Participants work together to develop advocacy campaigns, meet elected officials, and engage in meaningful discussions about the issues shaping their lives. 

The Fund for Women and Girls remains committed to ensuring that the next generation of leaders has the skills, confidence, and opportunities to drive change.