Girlstart

A nonprofit organization

$9,755 raised by 35 donors

98% complete

$10,000 Goal

From Afterschool Circuits to Saving Lives: Christa's Journey

When Christa Cook first walked into Girlstart's afterschool program, she was curious but uncertain about science. Like many girls, she wondered if STEM was really "for her."

Fast forward to today: Christa works as an epidemiologist for the Department of State Health Services, where she tracks disease patterns and protects public health across Texas. Her journey from afterschool participant to scientist didn’t happen by accident—it started with accessible programming that showed her what was possible.

"Girlstart didn't just teach me science concepts," Christa reflects. "It taught me that I belonged in science. That confidence carried me through my BS in Microbiology, my MA in Public Health, and into my career protecting communities."

Christa’s story represents the power of accessible STEM education. She participated in After School programming, attended summer camps, joined our Girls in STEM Conference, and even returned as a STEM C.R.E.W. college mentor—completing the full pipeline from participant to leader.

This transformation happens because programs like ours remain a part of every participant’s development.

In 2024–25, Girlstart After School served 2,081 fourth and fifth-grade girls across 85 schools in 3 states. Girls are building robots, programming Ozobots, exploring renewable energy, and experiencing their own "I can do this!" moments.

Your North Texas Giving Day gift ensures no girl faces barriers to STEM discovery.

And right now, thanks to the McKie Family’s $1,000 matching gift for North Texas Giving Day, every donation will be doubled for girls who need it most.

$50 becomes $100 → Conference scholarship opens new possibilities
$150 becomes $300 → Complete STEM materials for one week at one school
$300 becomes $600 → Technology enhancement for the entire program

Christa's journey from afterschool participant to public health protector shows what's possible when barriers disappear and potential soars.

Will you help spark the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators?

Because the next Christa might be sitting in an afterschool program right now, waiting to discover what she's capable of.

Mission

Girlstart’s mission is to empower girls through STEM. We envision a future where all who identify as girls believe they can change their world through STEM. We are a national women-led organization, offering year-round out-of-school STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) programming for girls in grades 4-8 in Texas, California, Massachusetts, and other locations across the country.

Needs

The fall 2024 school semester is just underway, and our team is energized and excited for the return of Girlstart After School! Your donation will go towards expenses such as STEM supplies and in-depth curriculum journals, equitable pay for our program leaders, training for our program leaders and school partner campus coordinators, and other needs that ensure the implementation, success, and quality of Girlstart After School in North Texas. Girlstart remains committed to building a community of girls who empower each other to take chances, work towards their goals, and have fun. YOU can make an impact on STEM education for girls!

Equity Statement

At Girlstart, we take our role as educators very seriously. We believe that education is a human right. Girlstart always seeks to promote access, equity, and inclusiveness and seeks to discourage discrimination that denies the essential humanity of all people. Our mission is to serve those who identify as girls, who might be discouraged from studying, exploring, or otherwise uninvited to participate in the STEM world. Our programs welcome people who identify as non-binary or gender nonconforming and want to be in a women-identified environment. We are committed to ensuring a safe place for every student as they explore their evolving identities.

Community Engagement Statement:

Beyond our girls’ programs, Girlstart also creates community STEM experiences that welcome families, caregivers, and boys. These events expand the reach of our mission, ensuring that curiosity and encouragement extend beyond the classroom into the broader community.