Paying It GirlForward: Goodman Partners with Pertinent Chicago Nonprofit

Goodman Theatre is proud to be partnering with GirlForward throughout the run of Betrayal (now through March 30)!

In the midst of a growing refugee crisis, this Chicago-based non-profit is committed to supporting hundreds of displaced girls from all over the world as they resettle in the United States. GirlForward provides opportunities for growth and community through mentoring, tutoring, and safe spaces.

Two smiling young women wearing hijabs, one with her hand playfully placed on the other's face.

Who Does GirlForward Serve?

GirlForward serves teen girls and young women (ages 14-21 and grades 9-12) who identify as refugees, immigrants, and asylum-seekers. Each year, they provide services for more than 200 girls from dozens of countries around the world, including Syria, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Iraq, DR Congo, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Nepal.

The organization originated in the Edgewater neighborhood of Chicago in 2011. They have since opened a second location in Austin, Texas.

How Does GirlForward Work?

GirlForward offers programs in three core areas:

Mentoring—GirlForward pairs high school girls with female mentors from their communities. The pairs engage in the “4W” activities—wellness, wisdom, wallet, and world. Mentors and mentees meet weekly to bond over everything from school and careers to relationships and life passions.

Education—GirlForward’s education programs are a great way for girls to practice their English while also exploring their interests. Drop-in tutoring is available throughout the academic year. Over the summer, Camp GirlForward combines literacy-based curriculum with fun fieldtrips.

Safe Spaces— GirlForward provides safe and social hang-out spaces that girls can visit after school hours. The spaces contain books, laptops, snacks, and other resources. They even offer a variety of workshops. It’s also a great way to form friendships!

A group of smiling girls and young women posing in a park. Many of them are wearing pink Camp GirlForward shirts.

How Can I Help?

One simple and easy way to support this wonderful organization is by visiting the Goodman bar before your performance of Betrayal!

Try our specialty cocktail, London Blues (a blueberry-basil infused gimlet made with basil leaves, fresh lemon juice, and locally sourced blueberries) and 10% of your purchase will go toward GirlForward.

To donate directly, become a mentor, or learn more about GirlForward, visit their website.

A special thanks to Bar Manager Mitchell Shaw for creating this delicious concoction and continuing our mission to pay it forward.

Gabriella Bonamici is the Marketing Assistant at Goodman Theatre.