WORCESTER—Girls Inc. of Worcester is gearing up for its first-ever Galentine’s Celebration: A Night for Pals and Gals, an event designed to foster creativity, friendship, and self-expression while highlighting the organization’s century-long commitment to empowering young women.
The celebration takes place on Tuesday, Feb. 11, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Girls Inc. headquarters in Alden Hall, 125 Providence St.
The event, which is open to adults 21 and older, aims to offer a stress-free, inclusive space for community members to come together during the Valentine’s season. Attendees will enjoy a variety of hands-on activities, networking opportunities, and a glimpse into what Girls Inc. does daily to inspire young women to be “strong, smart, and bold,” the organization’s motto.
Girls Inc. Executive Director Tiffany Lillie said the event is part of a broader effort to reconnect with the community and reinforce the organization’s impact.
“We recently experienced a significant amount of transition on our team, with almost 80% entirely new staff,” Lillie said. “As part of that, we’ve met with our girls, families, and partners, and a recurring theme has been the importance of rebuilding our community. This event is an opportunity to share what ‘strong, smart, and bold’ means to us while bringing people together for a fun, engaging evening.”
Lillie points out that the event offers a hands-on way for attendees to experience what Girls Inc. of Worcester is all about.
“Our hope is that people will learn about Girls Inc. by immersing themselves in activities that our participants engage in daily,” Lillie told the Worcester Guardian. “They’ll have fun, meet new people, and truly get a chance to appreciate themselves and each other.”
For Lillie, this event is also personal. She began her career at Girls Inc. of Worcester as a teen, working as a youth intern for four years before continuing to support the organization through other programs.
“I’m proud to be back at Girls Inc. at such an important time,” she said. “Our world is uncertain, but what I hope to continue bringing to this role is centering girls’ voices in their hopes and dreams.”
The celebration features a range of interactive stations, including a Polaroid photo booth, a “Is it Cake?” challenge, jewelry making, a lava lamp nostalgia table, a mini canvas paint bar, and a dried flower station. Attendees can also decorate conversation heart cookies, craft personalized magnets and coasters, and enjoy a light meal, a cash bar, and a hot chocolate hub.
Girls Inc. serves youth from ages 5 to 18, and Lillie stressed the importance of creating a strong support network as they explore college and career paths. “We want them to imagine all possible options for their future,” Lillie said.
“This is going to be a truly special evening,” Lillie said. “It’s a chance for people to express themselves, unwind, and bond with friends—both new and old—while supporting an organization dedicated to empowering girls.”
More than 100 guests have already RSVP’d for the event. For more information about Girls Inc. of Worcester and the Galentine’s Celebration, visit girlsincworcester.org.
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