GREENWICH, Conn., July 17, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pointing out that over 4 million children are at risk of separation from their parents, Jody Bell, 16, today launches her venture, In Case of Deportation or I.C.O.D., Girls with Impact , announced.

Bell developed her venture as part of Girls With Impact, a 12-week “mini-MBA” where teen girls create businesses, nonprofits or projects to impact their career and college success (watch Jody’s venture pitch here ).

“Many children have nowhere to turn when that moment comes when someone knocks on your door and suddenly takes your parents away,” said Bell, a junior at Greenwich High in Connecticut, noting that 2,000 children were reportedly separated from their families. “Our hope is that I.C.O.D. will be that go-to resource with the latest information and guidance through their eyes. “

The online resource at www.icodhelp.org provides actionable information for children 8-18, including a Child Preparedness Plan. The platform is being integrated in several school districts, including New Rochelle Schools of New York and Greenwich Schools of CT.

Top questions the site addresses include:

  • What is deportation?
  • What steps should a child take if parents are suddenly deported?
  • What are a child’s options if parents are deported?

“Girls like Jody are looking to solve big problems facing our world,” said CEO Jennifer Openshaw , a nationally known financial expert, author and Silicon Valley entrepreneur.  “By equipping them today as tomorrow’s CEOs, we improve their success, our communities, and our workplaces.”

Girls With Impact, a nonprofit, is the nation’s only entrepreneurship program just for teen girls, delivered live from the home or road. The after-school, extra-curricular program drives exceptional results in confidence, empowerment, college prep and career readiness, including STEM areas.  Apply at  www.girlswithimpact.com .

Additional info:

Contact: For Girls With Impact: Jo Panzera: ops@girlswithimpact.com (917) 355-1317