FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ​​

​​

UNSTOPPABLE & UNAPOLEGTIC, ANNUAL GIRLS HEALTH MATTERS SUMMIT OFFERS 
WOODLAWN INSPIRATION AND EMPOWERMENT

​

Chicago, IL – (February 13, 2025) -- Manage Emotions Avoid Negativity Girls Inc. (M.E.A.N. Girls Empowerment™) is thrilled to announce the 4th annual Girls Health Matters Summit, scheduled for April 5, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the UChicago Charter School – Woodlawn Campus. This year’s theme, “Unstoppable & Unapologetic,” aims to inspire and empower 200 underserved girls aged 10–18 from the Woodlawn community and beyond. 

Empowering Through Education, Resources, and Connection
The Girls Health Matters Summit is designed to confront these challenges head-on. “Focusing on health and empowerment within the summit, we aim to equip these young women with the tools they need to shift generational outcomes and create a ripple effect within their communities," stated Keneatha Johnson, Board Member and Chair of Girls Health Matters. In addition to workshops and mentoring sessions, the summit will feature health resource vendors, offering attendees access to invaluable services and information that can transform their lives. The event is free to all participants.

 

“Our overall mission is to create a secure and nurturing environment where girls can address the diverse challenges they face, such as bullying, aggression, harassment, violence, and abuse,” added Shatina Edwards, Founder and Executive Director of M.E.A.N. Girls Empowerment. 

​

Bringing esteemed leadership to the event, Congresswoman Robin Kelly will deliver the welcome address at the Girls Health Matters Summit! A lifelong advocate for education and the advancement of young women, Congresswoman Kelly has championed initiatives that empower girls to reach their full potential. As co-chair of the Congressional Caucus for Black Women and Girls, she has been a powerful voice in addressing the unique challenges they face, including through the Protect Black Women and Girls Act. Her dedication to education, health, and equity aligns perfectly with the mission of the Girls Health Matters Summit. 

 

The Need for Action: Addressing Critical Health Disparities
Black girls face unique challenges. Nationally, Black girls experience the highest rates of bullying and harassment among all racial groups, with 38% reporting such experiences in school settings. Alarmingly, suicide rates among Black girls aged 13–19 have increased by 182% over the last two decades, making this a critical area for intervention, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. 

 

“We are a proud partner with M.E.A.N. Girls Empowerment™ and excited to play a part in its annual Girls Health Matters Summit,” said Cristal Gary, Meridian Plan President and CEO. “At Meridian, we care for what matters, which includes the health and wellbeing of our young people. We believe that educating, inspiring and empowering girls will strengthen not only their health, but the health of their community.” M.E.A.N. Girls Empowerment received a Health Happens Here Grants™ award in 2024 from Meridian Health Plan of Illinois, Inc. (Meridian), a provider of government-sponsored managed care services to families, children, seniors, and individuals with complex medical needs.

 

A Vital Resource for the Woodlawn Community
Woodlawn, located on Chicago's South Side, has approximately 24,425 residents. Data from the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) highlights a higher prevalence of chronic health conditions in Woodlawn than in other Chicago neighborhoods. Hosting this event in Woodlawn holds particular significance. 

​

“We believe in supporting students beyond their academic wellbeing. It's crucial that we support students in the development of their mental, social, and physical wellbeing. When every aspect of a student is cultivated and developed, a more productive human being is added to society,” noted Donald L. Gordon, Head of Campus for UChicago Charter School – Woodlawn Campus.

​

Building on a Decade of Service
As M.E.A.N. Girls Empowerment enters its 11th year, the organization proudly reflects on a decade of empowering over 2,000 underserved girls. In honor of its impactful journey, 2024 marked a significant milestone—the recognition of April 6 as Girls Health Matters Day in Illinois, officially proclaimed by the state.       
                                                                             
How You Can Get Involved 
For media inquiries, please email contact@meangirlsempowerment.org. 
For sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, please email k.johnson@meangirlsempowerment.org.  

 

About M.E.A.N. Girls Empowerment™ 
M.E.A.N. Girls Empowerment™ is a Chicago-based non-profit organization dedicated to preventing bullying, building self-confidence, and supporting the goals of young girls in high-risk communities. Founded in 2014, the organization has a proven track record of increasing self-esteem, academic performance, and life decisions. Visit meangirlsempowerment.org for more information.