The Florida Girls Databook Launch

We believe in empowering the next generation of female leaders. On April 29, 2025, we proudly hosted the official launch of the Florida Girls Databook, an event that showcased the critical data and insights about the challenges faced by "at-promise" girls in Florida.

The event, held at the Overtown Performing Arts Center, was a testament to the collective effort of Girl Power Rocks, the Florida Girls Initiative, and countless community leaders working together to bring real change. The Florida Girls Databook highlights alarming trends affecting Florida’s girls, providing us with a comprehensive, data-driven approach to understand their needs, challenges, and aspirations.

Key Takeaways from the Florida Girls Databook

The Florida Girls Databook sheds light on the dire reality that 1.3 million girls in Florida are living with circumstances that limit their future potential. From emotional distress to academic struggles and trauma, the statistics are eye-opening and serve as a call to action for us all. Some key findings include:

• 65% of girls in Florida live with risk factors that limit their fullest potential, including poverty, mental health challenges, and lack of access to quality education.

• More than 1 in 4 Florida girls have considered suicide in the past year, with 12.9% having attempted suicide.

• Florida is #1 in the nation for human trafficking, with girls being disproportionately affected.

These statistics paint a powerful picture of the need for change, and the Florida Girls Databook is not just a report; it’s a call to action.

Panel Discussion: Insights from Experts

At the launch event, a panel of experts from across various sectors discussed the findings of the Databook and explored ways the community can come together to support Florida’s "at-promise" girls. The discussion featured notable leaders such as:

• Dr. Sandra Williams, CEO of QQ Research Consultants (Panel Moderator)

• Latawun M. Bess, Director of Miami-Dade Juvenile Services Department

• Dr. Todra L. Anderson, Chief Medical Officer at Memorial Hospital West

• Marya Meyer, Executive Director of The Women’s Fund Miami-Dade

• Marta Torres, Director of Licensed Care & Youth Services at Citrus Family Care Network

• Helen Vilorio, Director of Programs at Girl Power Rocks, Inc.

These panelists shared their invaluable perspectives on the challenges girls face and discussed collaborative efforts to address these issues. From improving access to STEAM education to providing mental health support, the discussion focused on actionable solutions that can help create a better future for "at-promise" girls.

Looking Ahead: How You Can Make a Difference

The Florida Girls Databook Launch is just the beginning of a larger movement. As we move forward, we need your support to continue our work. Girl Power Rocks is committed to providing mentorship, STEAM programs, after school care, and safe spaces for girls to thrive, and we are counting on you to join us in this mission.

Here are a few ways you can help:

1. Donate to support our programs and initiatives.

2. Become a Friend of Girl Power and stay involved in our community efforts.

3. Share the message by spreading the word about the challenges Florida girls face and the solutions we can work towards together.

   
   

A Thank You to Our Partners and Supporters

We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended the event and to our incredible partners who are working with us to empower the girls who need it most. Your continued support allows us to turn the data from the Florida Girls Databook into real, lasting change.

We’re excited for the future, and together, we can help these girls achieve their fullest potential.

Stay tuned for more updates from Girl Power Rocks and the Florida Girls Initiative. Together, we can make a difference.