For 12-year-old Iggy, Girls Inc. of Metro Denver has been a familiar part of her life since first grade. Growing up in Lakewood, she has spent years building friendships, discovering new interests, and learning more about what it means to be strong, smart, and bold.  

Iggy remembers feeling nervous on her first day at Girls Inc. as a first grader who didn’t know anyone. But a warm welcome from one of her first mentors, Ms. Adonia, helped her feel at ease. Since then, she has found a community where she can be herself, build friendships with girls of all ages, and feel encouraged to step outside her comfort zone. 

Now, she describes Girls Inc. in one word: “home.” 

“Girls Inc. has taught me a lot about women empowerment,” Iggy says. “I don’t think I would’ve learned that stuff in school at all.” 

Over the years, some of her favorite memories have taken place in the multipurpose room, where she remembers spending time making crafts, talking with friends, and learning how to fold origami. She especially loves the room’s energy and describes it as a little chaotic — in the best way. From creative activities to science experiments, there has always been something new to discover. 

One experience that stands out happened when she was in second grade, during a science lesson exploring how the human body works. It was one of many opportunities at Girls Inc. that introduced her to subjects she might not have encountered otherwise. As she has gotten older, those lessons have continued to evolve, allowing her to explore topics like the reproductive system, women’s health, and women’s involvement in science and medicine. 

Through these experiences, Iggy has developed a greater appreciation for the possibilities available to women and girls. 

“Women and girls can do hard things,” she says, something she learned at Girls Inc.  

Looking toward the future, Iggy already has an idea of where she wants her interests to take her. She hopes to become an anesthesiologist, a career she finds fascinating. As she continues learning about the human body and exploring science, Girls Inc. is helping her see more possibilities for herself in the medical field. 

And while she has big dreams for the future, Iggy knows that some of the most important lessons she’s learned at Girls Inc. are about believing in herself and embracing what makes her unique. It’s a message she hopes other girls will carry with them, too. 

“Don’t change who you are because the right people will like who you are,” she says. 

For Iggy, Girls Inc. is more than somewhere to spend time after school. It’s a place where she can ask questions, explore her interests, build meaningful friendships, and feel comfortable being herself. As she looks ahead to a future in medicine, she carries those experiences with her — along with the confidence to know that she is capable of doing hard things.