When siblings Julieta and Gema Ruvalcaba first joined Girls Inc. of Tarrant County in 2012, their mom, Carla thought it would be a nice way for the girls to spend the summertime months. Mrs. Ruvalcaba learned about Girls Inc. through her local library and was able to see her girls learn and have fun through a number of activities that ranged from ice cream making, to creating friendship bracelets that would remind them of the bonds made at Girls Inc.

“They always came home so happy,” she shared. “I was motivated to bring them more often when I found out they could continue partaking after summer was over, because I wanted them to be [inspired] by other strong women.”

Today, Julieta and Gema, are in college and proud Girls Inc. Alumna. Their younger sisters Ximena, 14, and Carla, 9, are now active Girls Inc. participants, as well.

Julieta credits Girls Inc. for her smooth transition from high school to college, noting that she received help filling out admissions applications, financial aid forms, and that her mentors always made her believe she could succeed.

When asked about what it’s like to see her younger sisters in Girls Inc., Julieta is quick to respond, “It’s exciting! Especially seeing them out of their shells.”

“I like the way I meet new people,” says Ximena.

When sharing some of her most memorable experiences, Ximena reflects on all the things she did with Girls Inc. last summer, like when she and her new friends were taken to a massive indoor water park, but more importantly, when she had a chance to give back to the community. As part of a service activity, Ximena and other GITC participants worked together to assemble care kits for the homeless. Each kit included food items, and the girls also passed out popsicles, which provided some much-needed relief in the 100+ degree weather.

“It felt good to help people in need… [they] were so grateful for the things they were receiving,” said Ximena.

“I feel so proud of their involvement here. I’ve been them become independent and learn so much,” says mom Carla. “We love being part of the Girls Inc. family.”

“Girls Inc. will always hold a special place in my heart… They were always there when I needed them, and I could trust everyone.”  -Julieta.