Give Thanks for Girls Benefit Brunch

Join us and Newark Symphony Hall for the Give Thanks for Girls Benefit Brunch on November 9th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the historic Newark Symphony Hall, 1020 Broad St, Newark, NJ 07102.

The keynote features Dr. Melissa Harris-Perry, Maya Angelou Presidential Chair at Wake Forest University in the Department of Politics and International Affairs and Director of the Anna Julia Cooper Center, in conversation with Marley Dias, founder of the #1000BlackGirlBooks campaign. Together, they will discuss the theme: “Why We Must Invest in Girls.”

We will also celebrate community changemakers, including:

• Amina Anekwe, a junior at New York University, honored for her work in advancing menstrual equity.
• August Daniels and Jacsyn Scott, recognized for promoting freedom and education through their leadership of GrassROOTS’ Banned Book Club.
• Olivia Raymond, a first-year student at Brown University, for her work in drafting legislation focused on mental wellness.

Why We Must Invest in Girls

• Menstrual Equity: Research highlights that 1 in 5 girls in the U.S. misses school due to a lack of menstrual products (Girls Helping Girls Period, 2023).
• Mental Health: Suicide rates for Black women and girls aged 15 to 24 have more than doubled over the past two decades, underscoring an urgent need for mental health resources and supportive environments (Bridge et al., 2021).
• Censorship and Representation: The increase in censorship of books by Black women authors and featuring Black girl protagonists has deprived youth of diverse voices and mirrors of their own experiences, which are critical to self-identity and empowerment (American Library Association, 2023).

The Give Thanks for Girls Benefit Brunch is a celebration of Black girlhood and excellence, honoring Black girls who lead change in their communities through service, courage, and impact. These young changemakers inspire the next generation of leaders and make a difference now.

“When a girl is empowered, her entire community thrives.” – United Nations

Join Us Today

Grab a ticket and celebrate the power of girls! Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Email president@grassrootscommunityfoundation.org to learn how you can support girls’ success in the U.S. and across the globe.