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Featured Story: Girls Inc. Alum Khalea Finds Her Way Back to the Crestwood Center

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Meet Khalea, a 19-year-old from Hoover, Alabama, who first connected with Girls Inc. when her mom signed her up for summer camp in middle school. Though she wasn’t thrilled about going at first, it didn’t take long for her to warm up to the fun outdoor activities, workshops on topics like self-defense, and even college prep. As she grew older, Khalea took part in Girls Inc.’s  Teen Leadership Program and joined Project Accelerate, where Ms. Nicole became a key mentor, helping her navigate ACT prep, scholarship opportunities, and the complex college application process.

Now a Marketing and Spanish major at the University of Alabama, Khalea returned to Girls Inc. this summer, interning with the Development Department. She dove into social media work and graphic design, gaining valuable hands-on experience that ties to her studies. “Interning at Girls Inc. felt like coming full circle. The organization shaped me into who I am today, and it’s exciting to now give back in a meaningful way,” she shares.

She credits Girls Inc. with helping her build confidence, especially during those tough middle school years, describing it as a place that truly shaped who she is today. . “Middle school wasn’t easy for me, but Girls Inc. gave me the support and space to be myself,” she says. One of her favorite full-circle moments? Reconnecting with a childhood friend she met at Girls Inc.—who’s now her college roommate.

Khalea’s story is one of growth and empowerment, and we’re so proud of how she’s carried the lessons of Girls Inc. with her. She plans to stay connected to the organization through Project Accelerate and keep giving back to the community that has meant so much to her. We can’t wait to see what her next chapter holds!