New York, NY (April 1, 2013) – Girls Inc., the nonprofit organization that inspires all girls to be strong, smart and bold, is teaming up with jcpenney as part of the retailer’s charitable giving program, jcp cares. One of the first beneficiaries of this partnership is Helen, 18-years-old, of Girls Inc. of New York City, who received a $20,000 college scholarship for demonstrating how she embodies this mission. At Girls Inc. of New York City, Helen has demonstrated her leadership by writing for the school newspaper about bullying and self-esteem. She even organized a “Day of Silence” at her school to raise awareness about the effects of bullying so students wouldn't suffer like she did at the hands of their tormentors. Girls Inc. of New York City is part of a network of Girls Inc. organizations that provides girls from challenging socio-economic backgrounds the confidence to achieve through life-changing programs and experiences, including exposure to mentors and diverse career opportunities.
Throughout the month of April, jcpenney customers can round up their purchases to the nearest whole dollar and donate the difference to support Girls Inc., which will be using a portion of the funds to establish The Pearl Fund, a scholarship fund for Girls Inc. created by designer Georgina Chapman. “This month, customers’ spare change can add up to make a huge difference in helping girls’ college dreams come true,” said Miki Woodard, jcp cares president and jcpenney vice president of philanthropy. “Thanks to our customers’ donations, Girls Inc. will be able to continue to provide life-changing scholarship opportunities.” The Pearl Fund will provide scholarships over the next three years to current high school students who are Girls Inc. participants. Funds will also be used to establish a scholarship program for Girls Inc. alumnae.
"I'm honored jcp invited me to be a part of their jcp cares initiative to support Girls Inc. The Pearl Fund provides a wonderful opportunity to give back and help a new generation of girls achieve their dreams and educational goals,” said Georgina Chapman. Chapman’s support of jcpenney’s April jcp cares partner builds on her existing partnership with the retailer. Her new collection, Pearl by Georgina Chapman of Marchesa, launched exclusively at jcpenney this spring. “Girls Inc. is committed to bringing out the potential of every girl we serve and inspiring her to see new possibilities for her life,” said Judy Vredenburgh, president and chief executive officer of Girls Inc.
“Thanks to The Pearl Fund, jcpenney and its generous customers, more girls will be able to set college goals and make them a reality, benefiting not only themselves, but also their families and communities.” “Thanks to Girls Inc, jcp cares, and The Pearl Fund, I will finally be the solid example for my family that I have always wanted to be. I will show the younger generations in my family that they can achieve great things regardless of the stereotypes that have been placed on them, says Helen. “This scholarship will get me one step closer to pursuing the career that I have always wanted as a forensic pathologist.” jcpenney customers can round up their purchases both in-store and online at jcp.com. Customers can also make a donation at jcp.com/jcpcares and support Girls Inc. through the Facebook social game, WeTopia.
