The G.E.M.S Program is a free program that teaches self-respect, empowerment, social responsibility, academic achievement, and life skills for girls ages 12 to 18. This program was initiated through the Little Rock Police Department in 2015 after noticing a rise in juvenile crimes committed by female youth between the ages of 12 to 18. There was a desperate need to address this problem by providing a program that would target middle and high school girls who are recruited by the officer or recommended by school administration and staff.
The Mission is to initiate a partnership with educational institutions, students, and community members. To provide needed services to girls who are faced with various societal factors that may put them at risk. To help guide pre-teen and teenage girls through a variety of health, societal, educational, and economic factors that many youths are affected by.
Goals:
Enhance individual self-esteem and self-confidence while empowering young girls
Educate young girls about how to interact with police officers
Raise awareness about the rise in incarceration for females
Reduce the amount of crime young girls commit by providing them with a program that gives them positive alternatives
Provide positive role models with strong, positive character
Enhance academic performance
Encourage economic self-reliance
