Girls Inc. of the Island City Programs

Girls Inc. of the Island City Programs include activities in engineering, art, and self-expression. Participants also take part in field trips and events as part of the program.

Girls Inc. of the Island City Programs operate under the mission, “We equip girls to reach their full potential by supporting them to overcome challenges and access opportunities.” The organization describes itself as the longest-running girls’ leadership program, evolving with girls to meet the challenges and opportunities of the day. Reported outcomes include that 89% of girls say they have been physically active in the past week, 90% of girls believe they will graduate from college, and 83% of girls say they can use what they know to solve “real-life” problems in their communities. Girls Inc. Summer Camp is described as encouraging campers to learn, explore, make friends, and have fun, with engaging and enriching activities all summer long. The leadership team includes Jennifer Pigza, Chief Executive Officer; Linda Ballentine, Finance Manager; Richard Ian Tracy, Office Manager; Renata Moreira, Development and Marketing Director; Natalie Duarte, Director of Programs; Caroline Ford, Assistant Director of Programs; Bettina Francisco, Social Emotional Learning Coordinator; Utronda Wilson, Director of Alameda Island Kids Program; an open position for Bay Farm, Alameda Island Kids Site Director; Lois Hodges, Earhart, Alameda Island Kids Site Director; Angela Smith, Edison, Alameda Island Kids Site Director; Sandy Glendinning, Franklin, Alameda Island Kids Site Director; and Moriah Walton, Otis, Alameda Island Kids Site Director. A testimonial from Julie, a Girls Inc. of the Island City Teen Program alumna, National Scholarship Winner, and UC Berkeley student, states that without the help of Girls Inc. of the Island City, she would not have been able to become a bold and visionary first-generation college student, and that through their many programs she has learned to push her limits and to dream of a better future for herself.

Last updated March 19, 2026.