Girls Inc. expands mentorship program with help from Russell Sage

TROY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- A local non-profit, aimed at empowering young women, is expanding. Girls Inc. has announced a new partnership with Russell Sage College to expand the afterschool activity in Rensselaer County.

College students will act as mentors to students in the Eureka! program. Leaders said the new addition will help its members explore STEAM careers and higher education possibilities.

"We are doing more than just providing educational opportunities," Girls Inc. Vice Chair Bria Barnes said. "We are allowing the girls to see themselves in higher education."

"Girls Inc. deserves their own special afterschool program because a lot of girls around my age are exposed to peer pressure and bullying. So it's important to be surrounded by supportive, caring people who can relate."

The program serves 35 girls in Troy. Organizers expect that number to double this year.