The YWCA Da Vinci Girls Program is an after school opportunity for girls in 3rd-8th grades that explores areas of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). It is the newest non-profit to be featured in CCTV’s Non-Profit Center. Click here to see video.

“It was first called SMaRT (Science Math and Related Technology),” says program coordinator Terra Naught. “Carol Green, the former YWCA Salem Executive Director, decided to enhance the curriculum to include invention, innovation, and discovery. Carol built an extraordinary partnership with A.C. Gilbert’s Discovery Village, who specializes in unique and exciting curriculum. ‘Let’s name the program YWCA Da Vinci Girls!’ Carol said.”

Leonardo Da Vinci: inventor, scientist and artist

A Mediterranean vacation inspired Kari Collins, A.C. Gilbert Discovery Village instructor for YWCA Da Vinci Girls Program, “When I went to Italy, I got to see Da Vinci’s home town, also called Da Vinci, and realized he’s done so much in science, math, reading and technology.”

The YWCA Salem is partnered with A.C. Gilbert’s Discovery Village and others, offering a six-week after school program just for girls. It serves fifteen area schools throughout the year in three six-week sessions. At times there is a waiting list. The Da Vinci Girls program teaches girls that science, math and technology are fun by demonstrating this through hands on experiments and activities. The YWCA strives to help girls realize their potential to succeed in jobs where they have been traditionally underrepresented.

“I love the look on the girls faces when they discover new things and their excitement over learning.” says Kari. “They realize they can do both math and science, that it’s not just a “guy thing”.

For more information contact Terra Naught, YWCA Da Vinci Girls Program Director at tnaught@ywcasalem.org or 503-581-9922 x316 More info: www.ywcasalem.org/davinci