Category: Advocacy

At Pace Center for Girls in Pasco County, a group of passionate girls are learning about the environment and what they can do to benefit the next generation. We had the pleasure of speaking with two Pace girls, Hannah and Rileigh, along with their science teacher, Wendy Vazquez-Ernest.  

Hannah, a 17-year-old in the 10th grade, has been at Pace for two years and aspires to become an architect after graduation. Her commitment to environmental challenges is matched by Rileigh, a 9th grader who has been at Pace for three months and wants to study forensic science in the future. Despite their different tenures at Pace, both girls are united by a common goal: making a difference in their community.  

A Project with Purpose 

Under the guidance of Wendy Vazquez-Ernest, the girls and their classmates participated in an environmental science and global warming project that required them to create detailed poster boards. These posters highlighted the issues of climate change and pollution across various countries, as well as potential solutions and actions that can be taken to mitigate these problems. 

Hannah focused on Italy, exploring the unique environmental challenges the country faces and proposing actionable solutions. Rileigh delved into issues in Madagascar like deforestation. Their personal insights and dedication were evident as they discussed their findings and proposed solutions. 

The Importance of Lifting Teen Voices 

The project is more than just an academic exercise; it’s a powerful example of how teens can advocate for causes important to them. Wendy emphasized the significance of teen advocacy, stating, “It’s crucial for young people to understand their power in enacting change. When they are informed and passionate, they can inspire others to take action.” 

Making a Change in Their Community 

Hannah and Rileigh are not just learning about environmentalism—they are taking action to make a difference in their community. Hannah shared her experiences of seeing animals pushed out of their natural ecosystems due to Florida’s population growing. Both girls committed to recycling, picking up trash and said schools should start more clubs to create awareness for the environment.  

“Seeing girls like Hannah and Rileigh engage with science and advocacy is incredibly rewarding,” Vazquez-Ernest shared. “It’s essential to celebrate their achievements and inspire more young women to pursue a passion in science.” 

At Pace, we recognize April as National Poetry Month, a time to honor the voices of our girls who use spoken word as a tool for healing, empowerment, and community building.

For many of the girls we serve, spoken word is more than just poetry—it’s a lifeline, a means of expression that transcends traditional forms of communication. Through spoken word, our girls find a safe space to tell their stories and celebrate their resilience. It’s a form of therapy that goes beyond the confines of a counseling session, offering a unique outlet for self-expression and self-discovery.

Spoken word is not just about individual expression; it’s also a catalyst for community building. Through poetry slams, open mic nights, and workshops, our girls come together to support and uplift one another. They form bonds that transcend backgrounds and cultures, creating a network of support that extends far beyond the walls of our centers.

Recently, Pace Escambia Santa-Rosa hosted a Poetry Jam that exemplified the spirit of community and creativity. With dimmed lights illuminating tables adorned with electronic tea lights, the atmosphere was set for an evening of enlightenment and entertainment. Several girls showcased their courage and creativity by sharing their original and inspired poems, captivating the audience with their stories and perspectives.

Woman to Woman

By Ayonni (Read by Ayonni & Minnie)

(1) Girl to girl.

(2) We love to share advice because we are in the same world.

(1) We are best friends.

(2) Huh?

(1) I might be a woman,

(2) and I might be a woman,

(1&2) we might be women.

(1) But that doesn’t mean we have the same point of view.

(2) What I find good

(1) You find bad.

(2) “Oou coffee.”

(1) “Ew is that coffee.”

(1&2) Woman to woman girl to girl

(1) We love to share advice cause we know we all hurt.

(2) You don’t need to hurt like me for me to share my sympathy.

At Pace Center for Girls, we recognize the strength of each girl individually, but we firmly believe that we are stronger together. Our recent Pace Day at the Capitol event in Georgia exemplified this unity and shared purpose. 

Four girls from Pace Macon had the opportunity to meet with elected officials and leaders, sharing the impact of Pace’s Reach model. The day began with Representative Miriam Paris presenting them with a House Resolution, celebrating their achievements and highlighting the importance of their voices. 

Exploring the Georgia Capitol Museum, the girls immersed themselves in the state’s history, reaffirming their potential to shape the future. Lunchtime discussions with former Senator Skin Edge provided valuable insights into advocacy, followed by a surprise visit from First Lady Marty Kemp.  

The pinnacle of the day occurred in the Senate Chamber, where the girls were honored with a Senate Resolution by President Pro Tempore Senator John Kennedy, alongside Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones and Senator Tonya Anderson.  

Pace’s expansion in Macon, Georgia in 2019 was driven by the growing need for mental health resources for girls ages 11-18 in the region. While the youth mental health crisis touches every corner of society, it disproportionately impacts girls. Our Reach Program in Macon is designed to be community-based, ensuring accessibility for girls regardless of barriers such as transportation or finances. By meeting girls where they are, whether in schools, homes, or the community, we provide the support they need to find immediate mental health support and a path toward resilience and academic growth. 

Pace Day at the Capitol is more than just a one-time event; it is a testament to the support and belief in the potential of every girl. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our community partners, including Charter Communications, whose commitment to our mission makes these experiences possible.  

At Pace Center for Girls, we understand the extraordinary strength that each of our girls possesses individually, but we firmly believe that we are stronger together. When we collaborate, uplift one another, and unite for a common cause, we can achieve remarkable things. This unity and collective determination were on full display at the recent Pace Day at the Capitol event.

More than 100 Pace girls from across the state met with members of the Florida House, Florida Senate and other elected officials and leaders to share the impact of Pace’s model. Their presence and enthusiasm were not only a testament to the potential within them but also a celebration of the impact they can have on shaping a brighter future.

“I learned a lot about myself at Pace Day at the Capitol. I grew the confidence to stand up in front of my peers and tell my story. All the legislators made me feel comfortable. I know I’m part of a larger community and can share my experiences to create a positive impact for future generations. I’m proud of myself,” shared Annabel, a freshman at Pace Alachua.

“The Women in Politics panel really inspired me. They shared the importance of working hard to achieve your dreams. Because of Pace Day at the Capitol, I learned how much our voices matter and how important it is to lift our voices to advocate for ourselves,” shared Aaleigh, 14, a Pace girl from Collier.

“I loved meeting girls from across the state of Florida at Pace Day at the Capitol. They are so motivating, and their energy is great,” shared Alyssa, a Pace girl from Broward.

These heartfelt reflections from the young girls themselves showcase the profound impact of Pace Day at the Capitol. It’s not just about learning; it’s about finding their voices and realizing their potential as future leaders.

During two days of meetings, training and programs, girls learned about policymaking, ways to effectively advocate for themselves, and participated in a mock Senate session. Girls heard from Adrienne Johnston, President and CEO of Career Source Florida, Department of Juvenile Justice Secretary Eric Hall, Senate President Kathleen Passidomo and Sen. Jennifer Bradley, Chair of Criminal Justice Appropriations.  

A panel including members of the Pace Board of Trustees focused on Women in Politics and outlined the panelists path to their current role in politics and encouraged Pace girls to set goals and consider multiple career paths. The panel included Brittany Perkins Castillo, Chair of Pace’s Board of Trustees and Chief Executive Officer of AshBritt Environmental, Marva Johnson, Vice Chair of Pace’s Board of Trustees and Group Vice President, State Government Affairs for Charter Communications, Stephanie Smith, Vice President, State and Regional Affairs, TECO, and was moderated by Tracy Mayernick, of The Mayernick Group.  

Pace’s work has positively impacted the lives of more than 40,000 girls and over the past decade has contributed to a more than 60% decrease in the number of girls that are referred to Florida’s juvenile justice system. Eight out of 10 girls that attend Pace graduate from high school, pursue higher education or secure employment after the program.  

Pace Day at the Capitol was made possible thanks to a community of support who believe in the great in every girl, including Capital City Consulting, Philadelphia Insurance Companies, AmTrust Insurance, Charter Communications, The Mayernick Group and the Florida Lottery.