Campaign to raise $3 million to increase campus size and programming

Girls Inc. of Greater Lowell (GIGL) announced at its CONNECT Campaign kick-off event last week plans for a $3 million capital campaign to increase campus size and provide program opportunities to empower even more girls to be STRONG, SMART and BOLD.

The facility, located at 220 Worthen Street in Lowell, will expand to include the building next door – the historic Greek American Veterans building at 228 Worthen Street. The “CONNECT” Capital Campaign already raised nearly 70 percent of its goal during the silent phase of the campaign, which began in December 2020, with funding through private donors.

“Our CONNECT campaign invests in the future of Girls Inc. of Greater Lowell by giving more girls the opportunity to become tomorrow’s women leaders,” said Bopha Malone, GIGL’s interim executive director. “We’re excited about our new spaces, enhanced STEAM programming, a fully functioning teaching kitchen, a renewed and refreshed community room, and so much more.”

The “CONNECT” Capital Campaign committee includes Girls Inc. of Greater Lowell’s Bopha Malone, Cathleen Gable; GIGL Trustee and former executive director Carol Duncan; board members Jennifer Aradhya, Jim Geraghty, and Carrie Meikle and campaign consultant Cathy Duffy Cullity.

“Providing a safe, inviting space for program participants, volunteers, and supporters is important in conveying the vibrancy of Girls Inc. of Greater Lowell and an opportunity to connect us to the community,” said CONNECT campaign consultant Cathy Cullity. “We are so encouraged by the participation in our campaign that has brought us to 70% of our goal and

The CONNECT campaign funds will expand the Girls Inc. campus and renovate the existing buildings. By adding 3.000 square feet, GIGL will double its capacity and increase the number of girls and young women who can participate in academic enrichment and recreational activities in years to come.

Since the beginning of the silent phase, 228 Worthen Street was purchased, and renovations have commenced. Additionally, heating and cooling system improvements in the gymnasium will be completed shortly to increase the capacity of space for year-round programs. Over the next year, the facility will open newly designed spaces, both interior and exterior to enhance both programming and ability to accommodate more GIGL members.

The campaign will continue through 2023. To learn more about the CONNECT campaign, visit https://girlsinclowell.org/connect-campaign/