More than a decade ago, Chicago-native Lisa Butler noticed the lack of pregnancy prevention programs available to young African-American females in Chicago while working with teen moms. Teen pregnancies and HIV/AIDS infections were devastating inner-city communities during the late 90s, and there were virtually no programs addressing these important issues. Lisa wanted to create a safe space for young women to receive quality information about topics that were important to them. She desired to create intelligent, fun and innovative workshops and support groups, with the primary goal empowering real change!
In 2001, Lisa started laying the ground work for BlackGurl Inc. She wanted to create programs that she wish were available to her as a young woman. Lisa dedicated her time and talent to developing a program that would empower, motivate and uplift African-American girls and young women to positive self-development. What started out as a personal dream has become a movement.
Today, BlackGurl Inc. provides comprehensive curriculum-based activities to African-American girls and young women ages 12 – 19. The workshops, seminars and support groups provide girls and young women opportunities for personal growth and self-awareness. BlackGurl Inc. programs encourage healthy self-esteem, teach critical thinking skills, and foster positive peer support with the ultimate goal of empowering girls to make a positive mark in their local communities and the world at-large.
The BlackGurl Inc. service goals are designed to:
- Promote academic excellence
- Encourage and promote critical thinking and high self regard
- Discuss and explore feminism and its relevance in the lives of women in the 21st century.
- Foster unity and sisterhood
- Provide information about HIV/AIDS prevention
