Pinellas Park, FL (July 1, 2021) – Earlier this month Girls Inc. of Pinellas launched their new pilot program Ready, Set, Kindergarten!, a full day summer literacy camp for 5-year old girls entering kindergarten this fall. Running from June 14th through August 6th, the program will focus on literacy, numbers, and social skills. Data continues to emerge that clearly emphasizes the impact that early literacy has on the long-term academic success of children.

In the past, Girls Inc has focused on serving girls in kindergarten through 12th grades. This new kindergarten readiness summer program that will help prepare 5 year-old girls for academic success in kindergarten. The long-term goal of this program will be to track the girls (and their families) who participate in this pilot program and understand the implications of early literacy

“We know that literacy  is important because it is the foundation for all other learning. If girls can successfully read to proficiency by 3rd grade, their chances of success in upper education and employment are greatly enhanced.” shared Darla Otey, Executive Director.

Assisting Girls Inc. staff with the program are retired educators from Seniors in Service. Founded in 1984 as a Florida nonprofit 501(c)3, Senior in Service’s mission is to provide solutions to community challenges by engaging volunteers aged 55+. Volunteers also benefit from staying active and purposeful. Seniors in Service engages 500+ volunteers annually in collaboration with 150+ community partners to help 5000+ underserved individuals. During 36+ years of service, they have provided over 5 million hours of community assistance with fair market value exceeding $76,000,000.

The Ready, Set, Kindergarten! pilot program will include the evidenced-based use of Summer Bridge activities. Additionally, girls will participate in the Oceans of Fun Girls Inc summer camp program designed to expose girls to careers and experiential opportunities marine biology.

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