It is dedicated to empowering refugee girls aged 12 to 21 from over 40 different countries, who have resettled in areas around Chicago, Illinois, and Austin, Texas.
All three provide English language instruction, financial literacy, and opportunities to meet friends and role models in the community.
[5] Blair Brettschneider began her involvement with assisting refugees in high school while working for the Save Darfur Coalition.
GirlForward mentors young refugees by helping them adapt to new surroundings around Chicago, Illinois, and Austin, Texas, teaching them English, finance, and social skills.
The creation of the Mentor, Education, and Safe Spaces programs allows fellow refugee girls to establish a network where they can exchange their experiences with one another.
Mentors work with girls to create resumes, apply for jobs, and provide options for after high school graduation including colleges and careers.
[5] The Wisdom Program leaves space for girls and their mentors to spend time doing homework, reading, researching and learning about new topics.
[8] The activities consist of studying English, mathematics, computer skills, exploring museums, learning about different cultures, health/hygiene instruction, budgeting for future trips, dancing to music or singing.
The money raised, mainly from foundations and individuals, goes toward budget programs such as the GirlForward summer camp and transportation costs.
2, Spektral Quartet challenged attendees to stay at the event for the entirety of five-hours in order for a donation to be made in their name to GirlForward.
In 2017, GirlForward partnered with Peterson Garden Project for Feasts of Resistance where refugee girls taught cooking classes to introduce dishes representing their homeland and their struggle against oppression.
GirlForward partnered with Color Squad and Creative Action to create a 240 feet long mural in East Austin, Texas.
Chicago Magazine's qualifiers to make the list were 501(c)(3) status from the IRS and those who earned Charity Navigator's top ranking of four stars.