$70,000 grant enabling nearly 200 students to benefit from continuation of program

INDIANAPOLIS (April 16, 2026) – Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis (Girls Inc. Indy) is proud to announce that Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield has joined forces with the organization to sustain its EmpowerHub® program across all Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) middle schools.

Launched districtwide during the 2024-25 school year as part of the IPS Rebuilding Stronger initiative, EmpowerHub® is a comprehensive program designed to support the success of students as they navigate the critical transition to middle school, focusing on healthy lifestyles, academic achievement, life skills development, and STEM exposure.

With Anthem’s support, Girls Inc. Indy is continuing to deliver EmpowerHub® to all seven IPS middle schools during the ongoing 2025-26 school year, serving the more than 185 girls who participated last year and many more to come.

“We believe improving health starts at a young age,” said Neil Steffens, President of Government Business, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Indiana. “By supporting Girls Inc. Indy’s EmpowerHub® program, we are investing in the confidence, resilience and overall well-being of these students during a pivotal stage in their lives. Together with IPS and Girls Inc., we are helping create healthier futures by addressing the whole health needs of students – academically, socially and emotionally.”

EmpowerHub® sessions are delivered during the school day, removing transportation barriers and integrating the programming into students’ regular schedules. The program provides mentorship, research-based curriculum, and a pro-girl environment. It empowers girls to navigate barriers, build resilience and intellect, and gain the confidence to shape their futures boldly.

“The launch of EmpowerHub across all seven of our middle schools represents a transformative step forward for our students,” said Dr. Aleesia Johnson, Superintendent, Indianapolis Public Schools. “By uniting the educational expertise of IPS, the mentorship strengths of Girls Inc., and the community-focused support of Anthem, we are creating a comprehensive ecosystem that does more than just address academic needs; it fosters the confidence, well-being, and leadership skills our students need to thrive long after the school day ends.”

The collaboration among Girls Inc. Indy, Anthem, and IPS reflects a shared commitment to advancing educational equity and emotional well-being for students. The EmpowerHub® program meets girls where they are, providing consistent, supportive relationships and empowering them to thrive during a crucial stage of development.

“This partnership represents a powerful investment in the future of Indianapolis girls,” said Lindsay Gramlich, President and CEO of Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis. “We are deeply grateful to Anthem and IPS for their shared commitment to empowering girls to be strong, smart, and bold.”

About Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis
Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold through direct service programming. Our comprehensive approach equips girls with skillsets to promote healthy lifestyles, academic enrichment, and independence. Informed by girls and their families, we support the community to increase opportunities for all girls. Follow us @girlsincindy on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Learn more at www.girlsincindy.org.

About Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Additional information about Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Indiana is available at anthem.com. Also, follow us @AnthemBCBS on X, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

About Indianapolis Public Schools
Indianapolis Public Schools is the largest public school district in Indiana, dedicated to providing a high-quality, equitable education for all students. With a focus on academic excellence, student-centered learning, and community engagement, IPS serves a diverse student population, preparing them to be successful citizens in an ever-changing global society. For more information about Indianapolis Public Schools, visit www.myips.org, or follow us at IPSSchools on Facebook and Instagram. On LinkedIn, you can follow us at https://www.linkedin.com/company/indianapolis-public-schools.