Vision. Ownership. Integrity. Connection. Empathy. Strength.

Program Vision

To develop a new generation of emotionally and socially intelligent young leaders who are grounded in character and purpose and inspire and cultivate leadership in others.

Program Mission

To equip 9th and 10th grade students with the emotional intelligence (EQ) and social intelligence (SQ) skills they need to lead themselves and others with integrity, empathy, and intention. Through identity exploration, character development, and real-world leadership practice, participants will be empowered to lead lives of purpose and impact.

Program Overview

GRStrong: V.O.I.C.E.S. and BBT: R.I.S.E. are high school-level leadership pathways within the Girls Rising Strong and Boys Breaking Through programs. These specialized tracks are designed specifically for 9th and 10th grade students entering a critical stage of identity formation and social development.

Grounded in the core virtues of emotional intelligence, social awareness, and authentic leadership, the programs focus on helping students discover who they are, how they relate to others, and how they can use their influence to make a positive difference in the world.

Program Goals

1. 1. Cultivate Self-Aware Leaders – Foster deep emotional intelligence to help students understand and manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
   2. Promote Socially Intelligent Decision-Making – Build strong interpersonal awareness, empathy, and communication skills for effective collaboration and conflict resolution.
   3. Foster Values-Driven Leadership – Encourage leadership that is rooted in integrity, service, and purpose.
   4. Empower Peer-to-Peer Influence – Train students to lead by example and create environments where others can rise alongside them.
   5. Bridge Personal Development and Civic Impact – Equip students with tools to apply their growth in real-world settings, including school, community, and global contexts.