Gwen's Girls

Gwen's Girls offers holistic, gender-specific programs, education, and experiences for at-risk children and young adults in Allegheny County. The program offers Community and School based programs that are set up so girls can participate in the settings where they already spend their time. It provides a safe space where girls and young women can form relationships, build self-esteem, and develop resilience.

Since 2002, Gwen's Girls has helped more than 6000 young people avoid the traps of poverty. Its mission is to empower girls and young women to have productive lives through holistic, gender-specific programs, education, and experiences. The program’s services are driven by the needs of its girls and families and address societal barriers of race, class, and gender. Gwen’s Girls celebrates the uniqueness of the female spirit while advocating for positive changes in girls, families, and communities. It collaborates with individuals, communities, institutions, and social service providers to promote the greater good and meet the diverse needs of those it serves. The program embraces diversity of culture, perspective, and experience as part of its approach. Through its educational opportunities and enrichment experiences, it aims to foster economic self-sufficiency, improve quality of life, and enhance overall well-being. Gwen’s Girls is committed to prudent use of financial and staff resources, seeks input from stakeholders, and measures its impact to support accountability and stewardship of its mission.

Last updated July 15, 2026.