Outreach program teaches girls about wind energy and water pollution

Too often, girls receive the message that math and science are not for them. More girls than boys turn away from STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) activities between 4th and 8th grades. 

However, at Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis' summer outreach sites, girls dive into science and math through our Operation SMART (Science, Math And Relevant Technology) programs.

This summer, Operation SMART is “going green.” Through this interactive one-time workshop girls, ages 6-14, get to:
 

• Vote with candy on different environmental scenarios.
• Brainstorm ideas to be greener.
• Produce a windmill, while learning about alternative energy sources.
• Create a replica water source to understand the effects of water pollutants like oil.

"The Operation SMART program is fun and innovative," said Jessica Wolfe, AmeriCorps Summer VISTA Outreach Cultivation Specialist. "It is beneficial because it not only teaches the girls about the importance of our environment’s sustainability, but it also reconnects them with STEM methods, which many girls have been told were not important for them."

Our Operation SMART programs are delivered at our program partners’ facilities by well-trained facilitators using Girls Inc. curricula. Visit our website to learn more about volunteering or other programs.