The non-profit affiliate receives grant to fund career-discovery program for girls ages 9-12

MERIDEN, CT, June 8, 2026—Cox Charities named Girls Inc. of Central Connecticut (GICCT) a recipient of the 2026 Cox Charities Grant to assist in deepening the organization’s impact while building a stronger, more equitable community.

Each year, Cox Charities awards Community Investment Grants to community-serving organizations, funded by donations from Cox Communications employees. GICCT will use its grant, in the amount of $10,000, to support GEAR Girls, a program that introduces girls ages 9–12 to engineering, machining, and technical trades through hands‑on learning. The initiative is designed to build confidence, spark interest in high‑demand careers, and help girls see themselves as future innovators.

“We’re helping girls explore machining, engineering, and technical trades in a hands‑on, engaging way while introducing them to career pathways they may not have otherwise considered,” said Laura Tiedge, Executive Director of GICCT. “This program is about building confidence, expanding opportunities, and helping girls see that there are many fulfilling paths to success and economic independence.”

This grant provides the opportunity to both help girls explore their future and expand the affiliate’s reach in Connecticut, while also introducing a way for girls to engage meaningfully with their families, communities, and even self-discovery. Through a combination of interactive instruction, creative design, and hands-on learning, it introduces participants to the foundational concepts of engineering disciplines while connecting them to their community’s history, industries, and local innovators. It encourages family engagement and addresses the underrepresentation of those from underserved communities in these fields, broadening awareness of local industry while fostering pride in community-based trades and innovation. Support for GEAR Girls gives participants who choose a path other than college exposure and opportunity to pursue careers that are satisfying, utilize their talents, and provide for economic independence.

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About Girls Inc. of Meriden and Central CT

In partnership with schools, community-based organizations, and at Girls Inc. centers, Girls Inc. focuses on the development of the whole girl. Girls learn to value themselves, take risks, and discover and develop their inherent strengths. The combination of long-lasting mentoring relationships, a pro-girl environment, and evidence-based programming equips girls to navigate gender, economic, and social barriers, and grow up healthy, educated, and independent. Each day, Girls Inc. inspires ALL girls to be strong, smart, and bold.

Girls Inc. of Meriden and Central CT Website

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