“Do I believe my generation is ready for more? I do know that my generation is strong. We have overcome a multitude of obstacles ranging from COVID-19 to the deportation of our families and friends. We have experienced what fear feels like. Fear of uncertainty, fear of imposter syndrome, fear of not being good enough. But I know that my generation can adapt to difficult and unexpected situations. We are resilient, courageous, and empathetic. I work with girls who are confident, sociable, and determined to ask questions. Girls who are passionate about sportsmanship and community. Girls who are beginning to discover that their voices matter.”

These are the words of Jailah, a Girls in the Game participant for over 10 years.

The Sinai Urban Health Institute found that Chicago girls, especially Black and Latina girls, are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and loneliness, witness community violence, and face self-esteem struggles. The Institute's main recommendation to combat these statistics? Prioritize girl-centered spaces for girls to grow and connect with each other.

For Jailah and the over 3,000 girls we serve every year, that space is Girls in the Game.

Throughout elementary, middle, and high school, Girls in the Game provides a safe space for girls to gather to discuss topics they don’t feel comfortable discussing at school: imposter syndrome, personal hygiene, staying safe online, and healthy relationships. Girls in the Game often talks about our sports programs. And while sports are an amazing vehicle to teach girls about confidence, teamwork, and grit, we know that the ultimate goal of our programs is to create girl-centered spaces. Spaces where girls can process big feelings, talk about their struggles with confidence, and find coaches and friends who they can rely on.

As Jailah put it: “I feel like I have a family in Girls in the Game. That’s why I keep coming back...It’s provided me with the space to be myself...Girls in the Game has had so much influence on my life...I don’t think I would have the skills I have in my life without it.”

If Jailah’s story has inspired you, please consider making a donation of any size to Girls in the Game today. Your gift of any size helps keep girls in the game all year long.

If you would prefer to donate via check, donor-advised fund, ACH, or another method, please reach out to Maggie at mjones@girlsinthegame.org for assistance.

Support Girls Like Jailah