Beyond Fun and Games: Why Spring Break and Summer Camps Matter for Girls in Houston

Spring Break and summer camps often get written off as just “something to do” while school is
out. A convenient way to keep kids busy. A patchwork solution for working parents. But the
reality? Camp is so much more than that—especially for girls.
At Girls Inc. of Greater Houston, we see firsthand how a well-designed camp experience can
change the trajectory of a girl’s confidence, skill set, and overall outlook on the future. In a city
as diverse and opportunity-filled as Houston, camps aren’t just a luxury; they’re a necessity.

The Houston Reality: Why Girls Need Camp
Houston is one of the most dynamic cities in the country, but it’s also one where gender, social,
and economic barriers often make it harder for girls to reach their full potential. Across the
Greater Houston area, girls—especially those from under-resourced communities—face
challenges that can limit their access to STEM education, leadership opportunities, and personal
development resources.

Here’s what we know:

• Nearly half (47%) of the girls we serve at Girls Inc. of Greater Houston are Black or
  African American, and another 42% are Hispanic/Latina—populations that are
  historically underrepresented in STEM careers, leadership roles, and higher education
  pathways.
• Many of our girls come from neighborhoods where access to enriching out-of-school
  programs is limited. Without structured, high-quality activities, they risk falling behind
  academically and socially.
• The gender confidence gap starts young. By middle school, many girls begin opting
  out of leadership roles, math and science subjects, and competitive sports—not because
  they lack ability, but because they lack encouragement, representation, and
  confidence.

So when we talk about camp at Girls Inc. of Greater Houston, we’re talking about a space
where girls can:

• Try new things without fear of failure.
• Build friendships in an environment designed just for them
• Learn from women mentors and role models
• Stay engaged during critical out-of-school time
• Develop real-world skills that build their confidence beyond camp