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Dear friend,
Allendale United Methodist Church hosted Girls Rock St. Pete back in July. Here are some comments from the GRSP campers, parents, and leadership:
The volunteer crew of Girls Rock St. Pete extends their heartfelt gratitude to Pastor Andy, the warm and helpful staff of Allendale and every single person who uplifts the values of this institution for offering our ‘lil program with teeth’ a home. You all made us feel so welcome. We certainly unpacked our bags and spread our wings in these halls and rooms which quickly felt like home to our extended family of girls, women and gender expansive folk. We hope this is just the beginning of a lifelong friendship with the Allendale community as a partner in the work we do to create safe and brave spaces for our local girls.
– Jesse Miller, Executive Director
I consider everyone at GRSP my family, truly. All of you had made such an impact on my life and had honestly brought me out of a lot of less than desirable situations over the years. Seeing the camp grow from something so small and only 20 people to over 40 is overwhelmingly amazing and brings me such an immense happiness words can’t describe. Knowing that more and more kids are getting to experience this is literally my dream come true. You all have made me see my self worth, and to be the absolute best person I can be. I’m so sad that next year will be my last official year of camp, but I’m so excited to be able to volunteer in the future! I love you all so much, and from every fiber of my being, thank you for everything you have done for me.
– Kailey, 14
This was the best week of my life. I loved being here and want to come back every year.
– Maya, 12
Having more confidence is definitely going to help me everywhere I go!
– Teagan, 15
It helped me gain an immense amount of confidence and helped me realize my self worth, I hope to be able to give that to more kids in the community in the future.
– Charli, 15
In a state that is increasingly emotionally and psychologically violent towards gender fluid beings. Girls Rock St Pete is a nurturing refuge.
– Kate, parent
I’ve been getting happy tears for a week watching the positive impact your camp had on my kiddo. You are all amazing! We CANNOT WAIT for next year.
– Becca, parent
Annalissa has always kinda marched to her own drum, and because of that it’s been difficult for her to make and keep friends and that really affected her outlook. This camp was amazing for her, showed her she wasn’t alone and can be accepted for the amazing individual she is.
– Mike, parent
The best part was the confidence building, being with other fierce females who love music, being able to be on a real stage and belt out a song she helped write – it was one of the best moments of Cami’s life.
– Christine, parent
My child’s cup was filled so full with support and encouragement that it can’t help but to spill over to others. I’ve noticed my child thinking words through before speaking and having an overall greater level of self-awareness and wanting to be the positive person that the GRSP crew saw within them.
– Ana, parent
This camp makes such a difference in so many people’s lives. You all are doing amazing work, planting seeds of compassion, social change, and empowering girls and gender expansive people. You are a safe space that is doing such vital work in our community. THANK YOU!! This camp was transformative. You are a powerhouse of a group!!!
– Jon, parent
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