HAGERSTOWN, Md. — The mission of Girls Inc. of Washington County can be summed up in the words featured on the homepage of its website.
“We are guided by a vision of powerful girls in a society that values and supports every girl.”
This is done not only through the community work that Girls Inc. is known for, but also a strong after-school educational program that offers a variety of classes designed to stimulate the minds of girls ages 6-18.
After-school program
The Girls Inc. after-school program is designed to offer classes outside of the normal school curriculum. Rae Tucker, director of development, shared some insight behind the classes and how they are selected.
“The classes follow both the curriculum of Washington County Public Schools,” Tucker explained, “but the classes also draw inspiration from what the girls are interested in learning.”
Tucker further explained that the after-school program is not designed to be just “more classes” for the girls, but to inspire them to explore other subjects and to fuel their imaginations in a fun and educational way.
Some of the unique classes that are offered include science classes such as human biology and first aid, a “bugology” class called ‘Wilderness Warriors’ and a STEM program. There are also artistic study classes in arts and crafts and a new theater class. One of the most popular classes is one devoted to learning the cultures of other countries which is called the ‘Adventure Girls Program’ and involves the learning of languages, histories and even the culinary tastes of different countries.
Summer camps and other programs
In addition to the after-school program, Girls Inc. also offers a summer camp program to keep the growth and education going all year long. The purpose of the program can be summed up through its mission statement.
“We create a supportive and inclusive environment where girls can explore their interests, develop friendships and grow personally and academically.”
Girls Inc. hosts three events every year to help raise money for the organization. Muddy Mamas is a 5K obstacle course that gets a little messy but offers a day of fun and entertainment for families and friends. Bonanza, which has been around since 1999, features dancing, a silent auction and food and prizes. The next event for the organization will take place on Jan. 29, 2027, at Cortland Mansion and is called Grapes for Girls. The event will feature wine and international beer tasting and both a silent and live auction.
Girls Inc. past and future
Girls Inc. was founded in 1864 with the purpose of helping young women and girls after the Civil War. Over the years the organization grew and began partnering with local schools and community partners that share the core beliefs of Girls Inc. which are creating a safe place for girls to learn, build relationships and develop tools to be self-confident, educated and independent.
Girls Inc. recently received $65,000 from the 2026 Gaming Fund Awards. When asked if there were any plans for the funds, Tucker said, “The money received will go towards our day-to-day programming for classes, maintenance for our transportation fleet which travels around to all the county schools to pick the girls up for classes.”
Tucker also said that the biggest use for the award will be the club’s food program.
“The club has a small kitchen that provides snacks and drinks, and this money will create more opportunities to add new kitchen items and food choices for the girls.”
For more information on Girls Inc. of Washington County, visit girlsinc-md.org.
