County Executive Dooley Applauds New Girls Inc. Facility as an Asset in St. Louis County Extended Education

Cheryl Jones, executive director of the local chapter of Girls Inc., said the renovation was largely funded through federal grant money, Missouri’s Neighborhood Assistance Program, the St. Louis County Port Authority and private donations.

Girls Inc. of St. Louis recently unveiled its renovated St. Louis County facility aimed at expanding education opportunities for girls ages 5 to 17. Girls Inc provides summer and after-school education enrichment in subjects ranging from art to STEM (science, engineering and math).

The building features a computer and science labs, a community garden, dance studio and a professional grade kitchen for culinary classes.

Cheryl Jones, executive director of the local chapter of Girls Inc., said the renovation was largely funded through federal grant money, Missouri’s Neighborhood Assistance Program, the St. Louis County Port Authority and private donations. The upgraded 44,000-square-foot facility is located in Northwoods and allows up to 400 girls in the building at the same time. At the unveiling Jones thanked County Executive Charlie A. Dooley for supporting the renovation.

“You don’t just come and support in money, you support in spirit,” Jones said. “When Normandy school district had some challenges, you haven’t turned your back on us or the girls.”

County Executive Dooley said the renovation benefits more than just the girls but community as a whole.

“When we come together as a community to help those in the least situations, we build up the entire community,” he said. “These young ladies will have continuous educational supports outside of the school to continue them on the path to excellence beyond high school.”