This new
and exciting youth development program for middle school girls in 7th and 8th grade is a partnership of the Albany Police
Activities League and the Albany Y and follows the Girls Circle curriculum, focusing on building self-esteem, empowerment,
and self-expression. Field trips include dragon boating and sailing at the Berkeley marina and more.
The fee for this program is $50.00 which also includes membership
in both APAL and an Albany YMCA youth membership. Our next session will be January 18 - March 28 with the
classroom sessions taking place at Albany Middle School on Wednesdays from 2:30 - 3:30. Field trips will end by 5 -
6 p.m. Public transportation will be used for all trips and girls must be picked up at the field trip site. Registration
packets can be picked up at the Albany Y, 921 Kains Ave., beginning Wednesday, January 11. All applications and waivers
must be completed before the first day of class. For
further information please contact us at apal@albanypal.net
This program is facilitated by a YMCA youth program staff member
that has been trained in the guiding principles, theoretical framework and foundation of the Girls Circle structure.
Girls Circle is designed to foster self-esteem, help girls maintain authentic connection with peers and adult women
in their community, counter trends toward self-doubt and allow for genuine self-expression through verbal sharing and creative
activity.
Girls Circle is a nonprofit organization whose purpose is to encourage the development of
strength, courage, confidence, honesty, and communication skills for girls. It is their goal is to enhance girls'
abilities so they are able to take full advantage of their talents, academic interests, career pursuits, and potential for
healthy relationships.
What changes have you noticed
in yourself since you joined Girls Circle?
"I’m
less self-conscious about myself"
"I
talk more to my mom"
Girls Rock! visited Bridges Rock Gym in 2010, enjoying rock
climbing, bouldering and slacklining.
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| Officer Limon lends a hand |
Members of Girls Rock! explored the waters of the San
Francisco Bay on Wednesday, October 13, 2010. The girls were guests of Pegasus Charters for a two hour sail on the Bay.
It was a perfect day to be on the water where it was much cooler than in town. Each girl had the opportunity to sit
or stand in the bow of the boat for an unparreled view of the area.
Captain Richard gave a comprehensive safety talk before allowing anyone on the vessel. Everyone
was given a harness which attached to the boat and a life jacket. All of the girls agreed the sailing trip was
a wonderful experience - they had fun and learned a lot about sailing.
