Girls Inc. Launches New Program, Ignite!, Thanks To A $300,000 Gift From The Carl E. Touhey Foundation
Albany, NY [January 22, 2025]: Today, Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region announced the
launch of its new Ignite! program, made possible by a generous $300,000 gift from the Carl E.
Touhey Foundation. This funding will create transformative programming for 6th and 7th grade
girls, serving as a model for impactful leadership development, empowerment, and educational
enrichment in Albany, the Capital Region, and beyond.
The Ignite! program will support a full-time leadership staff dedicated to guiding and mentoring
young girls in their personal and academic growth. Additionally, the funding will help pilot a
week-long “Day in the Life” camp this summer, providing an immersive experience that allows
girls to explore new career paths, leadership skills, and opportunities for community
engagement.
“The 6th and 7th grade years in a girl’s life are formative; this is where they begin to shape their
identity, dreams, and a sense of possibility. By focusing on this age group, the Ignite! curriculum
will aim to keep girls engaged and curious about their futures as they navigate life and
education between our afterschool and Eureka! programming. Prioritizing this age group during
the creation of Ignite! allows a natural succession of programming for a Girls Inc. girl. We are
proud to receive this gift as it further solidifies our commitment to inspiring all girls to be strong,
smart, and bold. We are deeply grateful for the Carl E. Touhey Foundation’s support in making
this vision a reality,” said Ashli Fragomeni, CEO of Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region.
“Middle School is a crucial time in young people’s lives. Our Foundation is very pleased to
support the most needed initiative,” said Charles Touhey, Director of the Carl E. Touhey
Foundation.
The Carl E. Touhey Foundation’s generosity reflects its continued dedication to supporting youth
development and creating lasting impact in Albany communities. The foundation’s funding will
not only enhance the educational landscape for young girls but will also help to create a lasting
legacy of leadership for the future.
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. Learn more at www.girlsinccapitalregion.org.
Media Contact: Belinda Washock | Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region
Marketing & Communications Specialist | [email protected]