In creating hardiness zones for girls and women we know that just as different plants grow in different ways, girls and women also tend to grow differently and require different nutrients. This is true whether they live in urban or rural communities, are economically secure or homeless, native or immigrant, are white or of color. The programs we create move away from focusing on single issues such as disordered eating or self esteem. Instead we focus on the social and political landscape that girls grow in, and women live through. Girls’ and women’s positions will not improve until those social and political landscapes are improved.

In order to achieve our vision that all women and girls experience equality, independence and safety in their everyday lives, we work directly with girls and with communities and adults who work with girls' best interests at heart.

Direct Service

We provide programming for girls in 2nd through 12th grade that gives girls opportunities to explore new areas of interest, to challenge themselves by learning new skills, and to build alliances with other girls while learning from women who are breaking free of stereotypes.

Raising Awareness in the Community

We provide a number of opportunities to raise awareness of issues concerning women and girls, including through our Lending Library, Community Film Series, and through our various collaborations.

Training Institute

At Hardy Girls, we know we can't do this work alone, so we offer trainings, webinars, and workshops for adults working with girls throughout the year.