Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region Expands After-School Programming to Poughkeepsie
Programs Contact: Diana Suits | Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region
Senior Director of Programs | [email protected]
Media Contact: Belinda Washock | Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region
Marketing & Communications Specialist | [email protected]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region Expands After-School Programming to Poughkeepsie
Poughkeepsie, NY [April 28, 2025]: Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region is proud to announce the expansion of its after-school programming into Poughkeepsie, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s ongoing mission to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Programming will be offered directly within Poughkeepsie Middle School, providing vital academic support, social-emotional development, and leadership programming to approximately 10 sixth-grade girls in the area.
This expansion was made possible thanks to generous support from several key partners. The Blossom Fund, led by longtime youth advocate Kate Blossom, played a critical role in bringing this vision to life. Additional support came from the Dutchess County Community Grants Fund of the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, which contributed $2,500, and M&T Bank, which also provided $2,500 in funding to support this initiative.
“We are on an exciting upward trajectory,” said Ashli Fragomeni, CEO of Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region. “This expansion speaks to the constant and growing need in communities for programs that truly understand and respond to the unique experiences of girls. Girls Inc. is the expert in the whole girl, and we are proud to be entrusted by families, schools, and community leaders to help build and empower future changemakers. We are thrilled to serve the girls of Poughkeepsie, and are deeply grateful for the school’s collaboration and for welcoming us into this new community with open arms.”
The Poughkeepsie program will stay true to Girls Inc.’s roots and offer nationally recognized, research-based curriculum to help girls thrive academically, socially, and emotionally- meeting them where they are and guiding them toward a strong future.
“Every sixth-grade girl faces challenges. Whether it’s pressure at school, at home, or just figuring out who she is and who she wants to be,” said Kate Blossom. “The girls in Poughkeepsie are no exception. I support Girls Inc. because they create a safe, empowering space where girls are seen, supported, and encouraged to lead. It’s the kind of experience that can change a girl’s life and I believe every girl deserves the chance to be part of it.”
With this addition, Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region continues to broaden its impact across Upstate NY, expanding opportunities for even more girls to access high-quality, evidence-based programming that centers their voices and potential. Poughkeepsie Middle School opened its doors to Girls Inc. on Friday, April 25, 2025.
About Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region Girls Inc. inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold through direct service and advocacy. With programs that break down social and economic barriers, they equip girls with the tools to succeed in school, work, and life