Albany, NY [July 28, 2025]: Shreya Sharath, a Girls Inc. participant from Girls Inc. of the
Greater Capital Region, joined peers from across the country in Washington, D.C. on July 14-
17, for a unique civic engagement experience that put their voices, values, and leadership skills
obtained through the Girls Inc. Teen Advocacy Council (TAC) into action.

The trip was part of the Girls Inc. Teen Advocacy Council’s year-long leadership program for
girls in grades 10–12 focused on developing their advocacy skills and a deeper understanding
of governing systems. During their week in D.C., TAC members participated in an ElectHer
workshop led by Running Start, where they learned about campaigns and participated in a mock
election. They also shadowed Senate offices through Take Our Daughters to Congress, an
event in partnership with the Women’s Congressional Policy Institute.

Girls had the chance to meet lawmakers and their staff—among them Senators Angela
Alsobrooks, Katie Britt, Kirsten Gillibrand, Ed Markey, Adam Schiff, Tina Smith, Elizabeth
Warren, and Ron Wyden, as well as Representatives Lou Correa, Diana DeGette, Suzanne
Bonamici, Lori Trahan, and Grace Meng—and advocated for youth mental health through the
EARLY Minds Act (H.R. 1735) and for menstrual equity through the Menstrual Equity for All Act
(H.R. 3644).

Throughout the experience, the Teen Advocacy Council learned about the legislative process,
explored issues important to them, networked with young professionals in government, and
developed the skills to become confident changemakers in their communities. The program
reflects Girls Inc.’s long-standing commitment to equipping girls with the tools to lead.
“It is always inspiring to see Girls Inc. girls learning about civic engagement and expressing
such optimism about their future participation in our democracy,” said Dr. Stephanie J. Hull,
President & CEO of Girls Inc. “They asked smart questions, shared their experiences—and
saw how they can contribute to shaping a better world.”

“We are incredibly proud of Shreya for representing our community and affiliate with
exuberance, passion and purpose,” said Ashli Fragomeni, CEO of Girls Inc. of the Greater
Capital Region. “Her dedication to advocacy and her ability to connect with leaders on Capitol
Hill to address the pressing issues impacting young women and girls, like menstrual equity,
reflect the strength of the new generation of changemakers we are building here in the network
and the Greater Capital Region.”

Now in its ninth year, the Girls Inc. Teen Advocacy Council includes girls from Affiliates in
Alabama, Colorado, California, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and New York.
The TAC and annual fly-in experience are an incredible opportunity for Girls Inc. girls from
across the Network to represent their Affiliate and local community on a national level, enhance
their advocacy and professional skills, and explore the nation’s capital. The girls leave this
experience and their year-long commitment with an enhanced understanding of the
policymaking process, a deeper commitment to public service, and newfound friends.

About Girls Inc.
Girls Inc. is a network of local organizations that works with schools and in communities across
the United States and Canada. Through direct service and advocacy, Girls Inc. equips girls with
the knowledge and skills to effect positive changes in their lives and to become leaders who will
change the world. Professionally trained staff and volunteers provide mentorship, supportive
spaces, and research-informed programming that address the challenges girls face and are
proven to help them succeed. Together with partners and supporters, Girls Inc. is building the
new generation of leaders. Join us at girlsinc.org.