Young girls are often an overlooked demographic in conversations about social impact, yet their potential to shape the future is boundless. GirlUp GVL, a Greenville-based organization dedicated to empowering young women, ensures that girls facing systemic barriers receive the support, mentorship, and opportunities they need to thrive. Through the generosity of community partners like the Jolley Foundation, GirlUp GVL has spent the last five years transforming obstacles into opportunities for over 175 girls.

The numbers speak volumes: 100% of seniors in the program graduate high school and enroll in higher education. Participants receive access to academic support, paid internships, career readiness training, and life skills development—all crucial in preparing them for success beyond the classroom. From learning how to swim and gaining confidence in middle school to securing internships through the GrowU program, GirlUp GVL ensures that each participant has a pathway toward personal and professional growth.

Girls like Dashyia exemplify the power of sustained investment in young women. Beginning her journey with GirlUp GVL in sixth grade, she navigated challenges, participated in internships, and developed leadership skills that culminated in her securing a job at Cassey Electric—a testament to the program’s long-term impact. Stories like hers highlight why organizations like GirlUp GVL are essential in breaking cycles of economic hardship and creating generational change.

But the road ahead is not without challenges. Young women, particularly from underserved communities, continue to face barriers to education, career advancement, and essential resources. 

The Jolley Foundation stands proudly alongside GirlUp GVL, reinforcing the belief that investing in young women is investing in a stronger, more equitable future. By providing financial support and championing organizations that uplift marginalized voices, the foundation ensures that programs like GirlUp GVL remain a beacon of hope.

GirlUp GVL is more than an after-school program—it’s a movement. It’s proof that when young girls are given the tools to succeed, they don’t just survive—they thrive. With continued support, the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers will emerge, ready to redefine what’s possible.