JAMESTOWN, NY-Western New York Girls in Sports, established in 2006 by Mary Wilson to promote spots and fitness to girls ages 9-12, is making a big impact in Chautauqua County this spring. Thanks to United Way of Southern Chautauqua County, participating organizations inspire girls through stories of women in sports and expose them to activities they may have never tried before. During the hour and a half session, girls experience a wide range of sports like soccer, tennis, and volleyball through several “stations.” They also hear from women athletes about the impact of sports on their lives.
“It’s all about helping girls try new things and gain confidence,” says Lindsey Goold, Director of Community Impact at United Way of Southern Chautauqua County. “The program empowers them and encourages them to get involved with the sports they are trying out during the event.” Goold delivered the materials for Girls in Sports to each participating organization, including a tennis racket, inflatable volleyball, and swag bag for each girl to take home—all funded through the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and coordinated by UWAY SCC. Participating organizations include Bush Elementary After School, Bemus Point United Methodist Church, Lakewood YMCA, The Relief Zone, and the Winifred Crawford Dibert Boys and Girls Club of Jamestown.