As we approach the end of 2024, it’s a meaningful time to reflect on the journey of the Delores Barr Weaver Policy Center, celebrate our progress, and renew our commitment to advocate for the well-being of girls in our community. This year has presented both triumphs and challenges, but it’s been defined by unwavering resilience, collective support, and hope. At the end of the day, the team made sure that girls continued to meet the needs of girls in crisis in our community- at home, at school, in court, and in lock-up.
The Policy Center team shows up every day focused on a singular vision: to create safer, more equitable communities for girls in Florida. We cultivate safe spaces where girls feel seen, heard, and valued. Our teams worked closely with schools and communities, helping to educate children, teachers, and parents about the unique challenges that young girls face—especially those who are disproportionately affected by trauma, poverty, and inequity. This year we have served 306 clients across programming and 321 in groups for a total of 627 clients from July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024. Also, we have saved the state $11.6 million by reducing the number of girls going deeper into the system. We know this to be true: girls are not only resilient but also capable of transformative growth when given the right resources and support.
In 2024, our team continues to review key data points and elevate the voices of the girls we are privileged to serve. Their voices help inform vital research that drives critical policy platforms and program development. We are exploring topics critical to girls’ well-being, from examining the damaging effects of incarceration to evaluating community-based alternatives that genuinely support girls’ growth. This research provides data-backed guidance to policymakers and highlights the necessity of addressing systemic issues that perpetuate cycles of harm. While Governor Desantis vetoed our 2024 appropriations request, our positive relationships and reputation with lawmakers are still solid and our work to enact robust policy reform continues.
This year, we were honored to deepen our partnerships with like-minded organizations, local governments, and dedicated community partners. We celebrated two community leaders, John and Julia Taylor, at the 2024 See the Girl Luncheon. We’re especially grateful for our collaboration with our community leaders. With the support of generous investors and the dedication of community partners, we can continue bridging gaps in services, creating a safer community, and elevating the voices of girls.
Amid an evolving landscape of challenges, from funding constraints to operational shifts, our team has worked diligently to manage changes while maintaining the high standards our community expects. Adjusting to these shifts required resilience and adaptability, and I want to express my gratitude to the team for their steadfast dedication.
The Policy Center’s accomplishments are due to the dedication and passion of our board, staff, partners, and supporters. As we gather with family and friends in this season of gratitude, I’m reminded of my privilege and of the girls who may not have the same sense of security. This gratitude fuels my drive to do more in the coming year, to ensure that every girl is seen.
As I look forward to 2025, I remain dedicated to Seeing the Girl. I hope you will join me in seeing girls for their true potential, not their present circumstances. Here’s how you can put the See the Girl spirit into action.
GIVE: Your generous giving allows us the flexibility to meet girls’ needs as they arise. Donate or Pledge today to ensure we have the resources needed to continue this important work.
ADVOCATE: We are constantly monitoring the state of girls in our communities – and what are the policies and practices that jeopardize their safety and fair treatment. Contact us to learn about our latest advocacy platforms and how you can help enact reforms that improve outcomes for girls.
VOLUNTEER: Community-based solutions are key to supporting our city’s most vulnerable girls. Volunteer opportunities include: speaking at a Girls Leadership Council meeting, providing holiday meals and/or gifts to girls’ families, or hosting a drive for hygiene items. Contact us to brainstorm ways to meet both girls’ needs and your volunteer interests.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Here’s to continuing our mission, creating positive change, and building a community that truly sees and supports every girl.
With appreciation and hope,
Vicky
President & CEO
