Rosie’s Girls Spring Challenge 2019

April 27, 2019 2:00 PM
by Diane Cancino, Cathy Taylor

When Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential proclamation to set aside time to recognize the accomplishments of American women, he acknowledged that “the achievements, leadership, courage, strength and love of the women who built America was as vital as that of the men whose names we know so well”. Decades later these concepts still hold true, and they are amplified in our 2019 Rosie’s Girls program.   

This unique day camp is named after Rosie the Riveter, a national icon symbolizing the women who worked in factories and shipyards during World War II.  In connection with Santa Monica’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, the girls who participate in this program are encouraged to build self-esteem and appreciate their individuality. Rosie’s Girls participants learn welding, carpentry, painting, and design and build a project using the skills learned.   

The participants engage in fun physical challenges. During the Spring Challenge, our 24 campers developed focus, self-confidence, and strength through rock climbing and team building activities that empowered them to take chances and test their own limits. 

This summer Rosie’s Girls will take on kayaking, self-defense, and a ropes course in the same spirit. These types of experiences provide a foundation for building life 21st Century life skills.  The Rosie’s Girls experience is designed to build skills that we believe will help our youth grow into adults who make deliberate, empowered, and courageous choices about work, life, and relationships. The three areas of skills we work toward at Rosie’s Girls are: Grit, Connection, and Expanded Possibilities. Drawing on our inner resources when things are tough, having strong, supportive relationships with those around you and knowing more about what you are capable of.  

Participants come from all over Santa Monica and create lasting bonds through their interest in these trades. Since its inception in 2001, over 750 girls have graduated from the program and many return over the summer as apprentices and high school student workers. For more information, call (310) 458-8540, email crest@smgov.net, or visit smgov.net/rosiesgirls.  

   

Authored By

Diane Cancino
Community Services Program Specialist

Cathy Taylor
Fire Prevention Coordinator