Thank you, Malala.

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As I sit here on a Monday evening, in front of my laptop and the debate, I can't help but take a moment to reflect on just how lucky I am.  I am lucky to be able to read, to have access to technology, and to come home from a steady job everyday.

Last week, the news was focused on Malala Yousufzai, the 14 year old girl who was shot in Pakistan, defending her right to an education.  Not that I am happy this event occurred, but I do think it will create some very powerful talking points with elementary and middle schoolers over the next year.

As a teacher and a volunteer for a women's organization, I only hope that I can share the inspiring story of a young woman who risked her life to learn.  Imagine having to fight for your right to go to school - things like this help remind us all to be grateful for the blessed lives we lead.  Tonight, I am thankful for education and opportunity - and the chance to share this story with others.

Thank you to Malala Yousufzai for reminding us all to be proud of our educational opportunities and to love learning.



This post was written by Emily Fetcho, an educator and advocate for women and girls.

CGL Updates: 10.3.12.

Happy October!  Today, we are giving you a quick update on just what we are up to here with the Center for Girls' Leadership.  We've had a busy couple of months since our last update.

• The CGL is officially tax-exempt!!  The IRS granted us 501(c)(3) status in September and this means any donations made in the past and in the future to the CGL in support of our programs and organization are tax deductible for the donor.  This also means we can now apply for grants and funding!
• On November 10th, we are hosting our first Girls' Leadership Camp for 6th-8th graders at St. Vincent's in Brooklyn Center!  We are so thankful for the school to allow us to pilot our program.  We are busy planning away to make sure the girls have a stellar Saturday with us!
• SAVE THE DATE - November 15th is GiveMN's Give to the Max Day and the Center for Girls' Leadership is participating as a small nonprofit!  We would love to have everyone donate at least $5 to support our programs.  We'll have more details as the big day gets closer.
• Board of Directors - We've welcomed 2 new board members since the spring, Brittney and Becca.  They are a fabulous addition to the board and we are so lucky to have them working with us!  
• Board member Mike and his wife Colleen also welcomed their first daughter in August and we couldn't be more thrilled for their family!
• 6 of our 8 board members graduated from grad school this summer!  We are modeling the way for realizing the importance of education.
• We currently are accepting applications for board members for a term starting in January 2013.  Applications are available from Alex Campion at alexandra@centerforgirlsleadership.org and are due October 31st.
• Interns!  CGL has interns!  Three amazing women have come on board to help us in the areas of grant writing and event planning for the spring.  We are in the works to host our first fundraising dinner and silent auction so stay tuned for more details!

Things are rolling for the CGL and it could not be possible without the support and love from all of you.  A huge thank you for all that you do!

We can't wait to see what comes next for the CGL as we inspire girls today to lead tomorrow!

Monday Inspiration: 10.1.12

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