Celebrating Four Decades of Empowerment at the Pace Center for Girls
The Pace Center for Girls marks a significant milestone, celebrating 40 years of dedication to empowering young women. With a focus on education, counseling, and advocacy, this organization has created a robust platform for girls to thrive. Recently, over 100 young women gathered to engage with state legislators, highlighting the considerable impact of Pace’s transformative model.
Engagement at the Capitol
During the annual Pace Day at the Capitol event, attendees had the unique opportunity to engage directly with members of the Florida House and Senate. This event, which took place in early April, allowed the girls to advocate for their needs and share their personal experiences within the Pace program.
A Platform for Advocacy
Yessica Cancel, Interim CEO of Pace, emphasized the importance of this event, stating, "Pace Day at the Capitol empowers girls to take part in the legislative process. By testifying before committees and participating in mock debates, they learn to advocate effectively for themselves and their peers." This hands-on approach not only teaches valuable skills but also builds confidence among the participants.
Key Highlights of the Event
One of the standout moments of the event was the Women in Politics panel, where prominent women leaders shared their journeys and insights into leadership roles. Among the esteemed panelists were:
Inspiring Leaders Sharing Their Journeys
- Marva Johnson, Chair of Pace’s Board of Trustees
- Stephanie Smith, Vice Chair of Pace’s Board of Trustees
- Senator Anitere Flores, Secretary of Pace’s Board and Director of Development
- Kathy Mears, Assistant Commissioner for the Florida Department of Agriculture
- Tracy Mayernick, The Mayernick Group (moderator)
The panel was a source of inspiration, encouraging Pace girls to set ambitious career goals and explore varied paths in life. The overwhelming message was clear: every girl has the potential for greatness.
Exploring Education and Career Opportunities
As part of their experience at the Capitol, the young women explored various educational institutions, including Florida State University and Tallahassee Community College. These tours provided them with invaluable insights into potential educational pathways and career options, reinforcing the importance of college and career readiness.
Impact on Lives and Communities
The Pace Center for Girls has touched the lives of over 40,000 young women, playing a crucial role in reducing the number of girls referred to Florida's juvenile justice system by more than 50% over the past decade. Remarkably, 80% of the participants graduate from high school, pursue further education, or secure meaningful employment after leaving the program. These successes speak volumes about Pace's powerful role in transforming lives.
Community Support and Future Directions
The success of the Pace Day at the Capitol stems from the unwavering support of various community partners, including Charter Communications and State Farm, among others. These collaborations help reinforce the mission of Pace in uplifting every girl and providing them with the tools they need to succeed.
About Pace Center for Girls
Established in 1985, Pace offers a supportive environment for girls to receive free academic education, counseling, and life skills training. The organization's innovative approach addresses past trauma while celebrating each individual girl's strengths, ensuring a personalized and impactful educational experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Pace Center for Girls?
The Pace Center for Girls is a well-established organization that provides education, counseling, and advocacy for girls to help them overcome challenges and succeed.
2. How long has the Pace Center been operational?
Pace has been operational since 1985, celebrating 40 years of impactful service to young women.
3. What opportunities do the girls have at the Pace Center?
Girls participate in academic programs, counseling, advocacy training, and career exploration activities to prepare them for future success.
4. How does Pace help in reducing juvenile justice referrals?
Pace’s comprehensive programs have contributed to a significant reduction in referrals to the juvenile justice system by addressing the underlying issues affecting young women.
5. How can community members support the Pace Center?
Community members can support the Pace Center by partnering with them, donating, or volunteering their time to help empower young women in their journey.
