By Eleanor Boswell-Raine,
Globe Associate Editor

Monday morning some 100 Home Depot employees showed up ready to volunteer on the rebuilding of one of Richmond’s most valuable nonprofits, Girls Inc., located at 260 Broadway.

     Fueled through the efforts of Girls Inc. board member Sharon Mitchell, a Home Depot employee, project “Extreme Makeover” ignited the spirits of the beleaguered agency and the Home Depot employees, including Vice President Bruce Levitin, who came from stores across the region to lend a hammer, nail, saw and more. The majority of employees were women who had a special interest in assisting the agency.
    Established 33 years ago, Girls Inc. of West Contra Costa County provides experiences that inspire girls through programs designed to address their special needs in an under-served community and to prepare them to be productive, independent adults.
   Eight months ago the agency was forced to discontinue its programs due to financial deficiencies. Girls Inc.’s afterschool program is a major component of its cadre of services. An increase in the number of public schools that began offering free after-school programs negatively impacted Girls Inc.’s funding formula. The end result was a $50,000 deficit split between debt and IRS back taxes.
    Shortly after Girls Inc. suspended its programs, parents and supporters formed a “Save Girls Inc.” committee in a stepped-up effort to mitigate the difficulties it faced. New board members added energy and determination to pick up the failing agency.
    With new donations including a $10,000 grant from the city of Richmond and the dollars saved through volunteer labor, board members announced their intent to reopen the core programs in September.


    To achieve its goal, the board must raise $125,000 to meet its expected annual operating costs.
    Board President Laura Johnson and Executive Director Gayla Edgerly are working to make the reopening a reality. They are applying for grant money and collaborating with businesses and other agencies to provide access for girls at a cost of $10 to $15 per month.
    Girls Inc. has been an icon for change in West Contra Costa County, serving low-income girls from 6 to 18 years old. Many of its program participants are second and third generation relatives of Girls Inc. alumni.
    For more information about Girls Inc.’s fundraising efforts, or to inquire about its programs, call (510) 232-5440.