SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (June 23, 2026): Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region welcomed community leaders, elected officials, sponsors, summer camp staff, and supporters to its Schenectady office today to celebrate the launch of its third consecutive year of FREE Summer Camp, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring girls have a fun, enriching summer experience regardless of financial circumstances.

This year’s four-week Summer Camp is made possible through a network of community partners committed  to investing in local girls. Returning week sponsors Martin Electric, Consigli Construction Co., Inc., Tri City Rentals, and new sponsor The Kiwi Foundation (Opalka Family) join transportation sponsor Grasshopper Heating & Cooling in making camp accessible for families. Additional support from The Review Foundation, the City of Schenectady, New York State Parks & Recreation, and Sycamore Collaborative helps provide programming, meals, and experiences that make camp possible.

Throughout the program, girls entering kindergarten through fifth grade will participate in hands-on STEM activities, creative arts, literacy enrichment, field trips, physical wellness, and leadership development while building confidence, friendships, and lifelong skills.

“By eliminating the financial barrier for families, we’re ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to experience a fun summer filled with exploration and STEM curriculum. We are incredibly grateful to our community partners for investing in the new generation of strong, smart, and bold leaders,” said Ashli Fragomeni, CEO of Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region.

“Summer Camp is so much more than a place for girls to spend their day, it’s a place where they learn how to swim, hike the Adirondacks, canoe for the first time, build relationships with other girls and develop the confidence to believe in themselves,” said Diana Suits, Senior Director of Programs at Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region.

The press conference also featured remarks from Manik Elahi, Director of Outreach for the Office of U.S. Congressman Paul Tonko, who recognized the importance of community partnerships and reminded attendees that every day is a great day to be a Girls Inc. girl.

Sponsors each shared their remarks, reflected on last year’s success, and expressed their excitement for supporting another summer of opportunity for local girls.

“Supporting Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region and their free summer camp aligns perfectly with our commitment to strengthening the communities we serve. Providing girls with access to enriching programs helps break down barriers and creates opportunities for future leaders. We’re proud to be part of this effort.” said Kelly Osterlitz, Executive Vice President of Grasshopper Heating & Cooling and Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region Board Member.

“When Martin Electric partnered with Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region to launch this camp sponsorship initiative last year, our goal was simple: ensure that cost was never a barrier to opportunity. It’s been inspiring to see other organizations join that effort and help open even more doors for the girls across our community. Last summer’s program exceeded expectations, and we’re excited to see this year’s campers gain confidence, build connections, and explore the many paths available to them as future leaders, innovators, and professionals.” said Kendra Hart, President of Martin Electric.

“As a parent raising two daughters in this community, and having grown up here myself, I know firsthand how important programs like Girls Inc. are for creating opportunities that inspire, excite and empower young women to explore what’s possible in STEM careers and beyond,” said Jennifer Rand, Regional Director, Capital District at Consigli Construction Co., Inc. “Through Consigli’s continued partnership with Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region, we are proud to deepen our shared commitment to providing accessible, high-quality learning experiences that equip local children with the tools, confidence and skills they need to break down barriers and build brighter futures.” 

“We are excited to be able to provide local girls with the opportunity to enjoy a meaningful summer experience filled with learning, friendship, and fun. Tri City Rentals is honored to support Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region and its mission of inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Investing in programs that help young people build confidence, develop new skills, and create lasting memories is one of the many ways we can strengthen our local area.” said Julie Massry Knox, Director of Leasing, Marketing and Communications at Tri City Rentals.

Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region has served girls across the Capital Region for almost 90 years, providing research-based programs that inspire girls to be strong, smart, and bold. By offering Summer Camp

free of charge for the third consecutive year, the organization continues its commitment to making high-quality enrichment opportunities accessible to every family.

About Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region

Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold through evidence-based programs that support academic achievement, leadership development, healthy living, and life skills. Serving hundreds of girls annually across the Capital Region, Girls Inc. creates supportive environments where girls can grow into confident leaders who are equipped to succeed in school, their communities, and beyond.