Instead of the usual trail-and-summit report, this week's post refers to our recent trip to GirlVentures' EMPOWER! Breakfast in San Francisco.
A few months ago, I was asked to be this year's Guest Speaker at GirlVentures' EMPOWER! Breakfast. I had not heard of GirlVentures before receiving the invitation; GirlVentures is based in San Francisco and I live on the other side of the country. I did some research and quickly realized that not only would I be thrilled and honored to be GirlVentures' Guest Speaker, but I would do what I could to ensure Alex and Sage get a chance to participate in this unique organization's programs at some point in the future.
GirlVentures brings together adolescent girls from differing economic, cultural, and family backgrounds and leads them through outdoor activities such as rock climbing, hiking, backpacking, and kayaking. The physical activity is coupled with the organization's Leadership Progression Model, an empowerment curriculum termed LIVE, RELATE, LEAD (Live Healthy, Relate Wisely, Lead Confidently). I encourage you to learn more about GirlVentures HERE.
The EMPOWER! Breakfast was a huge success. Three current GirlVentures participants gave heartfelt speeches about how important GirlVentures is to them and how it has helped shape who they are today. I then gave my talk (see video below).
Over $100,000 was raised at this Breakfast! I was able to do my small part by selling copies of Up: A Mother and Daughter's Peakbagging Adventure and donating 100% of the profits to GirlVentures (we sold out).
Since I was busy meeting folks and giving my talk, I did not take many photos at the event. GirlVentures has some pictures of the Breakfast on its Facebook page (click here).
I can't say enough good things about this organization. I truly wish there was something like it in New Hampshire. Indeed, I wish there was something like it in every city in the country. We need more programs that help empower the daughters of America!
After the Breakfast, the girls and I spent some time exploring San Francisco. While most of our hours were spent as happy and curious tourists, the girls experienced more than a few sobering and eye-opening moments. I'll write of those adventures later this week.
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