Vanessa shares, “At Girls Inc. I was able to express my opinions and emotions without the pressure of people staring or making sarcastic, disparaging comments. The warm, welcoming energy of the Girls Inc. staff made me feel safe and willing to open up with my fellow peers. Through Girls Inc. I also gained new knowledge, and skills that helped me deepen my relationship with my mother, understand my father’s situation and work better with my peers and those younger than I.”

Vanessa will be attending UC Davis in Fall of 2023