Alumna Erin is Paying it Forward at Girls Inc.

Growing up, Erin was a shy and nervous girl who often kept to herself. Her mom, a former Girls Inc. employee, thought the organization’s programs and mentors might be exactly what her daughter needed to break out of her shell. Erin began attending Girls Inc. of the Tennessee Valley in elementary school, and today still has a special connection to the place that empowered her to achieve her goals.

At Girls Inc., Erin went from being a shy girl to being comfortable, confident and curious. She absolutely loved attending Girls Inc., and not just because her mom was there. But because of Girls Inc., she could do it all. She took part in programming that emboldened her curious spirit and encouraged her love of learning. She also learned new skills and pushed herself by participating on the basketball and softball teams.

During her time at Girls Inc., Erin became one of the most outgoing girls. She credits strong mentors and being around a diverse group of girls for helping her find her voice, try new things, and raise her expectations to see that she was capable of more than she knew.

In fact, Erin loved her time at Girls Inc. of TN Valley so much, she decided to work there. After graduating college with a degree in business management and human resources, she wanted to give back to the organization that gave her so much.

Today, she serves as operation manager, and enjoys seeing how much the affiliate has grown. Every day, Erin tries to create a supportive environment so her colleagues are empowered to serve girls. She smiles every-time she thinks about the shy girl who walked into Girls Inc. all those year back. In the spirit of being strong, smart, and bold, Erin plans to pursue her masters in Business Administration and Human Resources this spring.

Erin encourages girls today to be open and inclusive of everyone, even those who may seem different. She remembers most of her years at Girls Inc. being able to interact and learn from girls with different backgrounds and interests, and the impact these experiences had on her.

“If you’re the girl who loves math, spark up a conversation with the girl practicing her cheers,” Erin says. “You never know what you might learn.”

Are you a Girls Inc. alumna? Share how Girls Inc. impacted your life and shaped who you are today on the Alumnae Group Facebook page or via email. Tell us about your latest accomplishments and how you are inspiring other girls.