Parlaying her journalism and legal careers into a phenomenal purpose, Velma R. Lawrence founded The Embrace Girls Foundation to empower little girls to be leaders who are healthy, confident, ambitious and always striving for academic excellence and service before self.

A celebrated grassroots education and social enrichment not-for-profit organization, The Embrace Girls Foundation helps improve the lives of elementary and middle school aged girls through academic tutoring, leadership, life and character skills training, and meaningful exposure to social and cultural opportunities and experiences. Since 2000, they have educated and engaged thousands of girls, ensuring not only their academic success but also, providing their schools, communities and families with wraparound services and resources garnering many prestigious recognitions from school boards, political leaders, and most recently, a Congressional Service Recognition and permanent placement in the Library of Congress in honor of the organization’s landmark 25th year of service.

From the Embrace Girl Power! After School Programs & Camps to fundraisers and field trips, the opportunities are at once essential and fun. “It’s a simple formula that is data-driven and measured showing that when girls feel good about themselves, have positive mentors and life experiences, they in turn make great social decisions and do outstandingly well academically,” says Founder & CEO Velma R. Lawrence. “I want them to know they can move with confidence, act with kindness and embrace their girl power unapologetically.”

It is her advocacy for girls and women, along with her passion for compassion and mentorship of those who are at-risk and their communities, that will be her most lasting legacy. Always grounded in faith and leading with humility while inspiring others to create opportunities for joy and purpose in their lives, her message is clear: “Your Super Power is YOU: Own it, embrace it, and protect it,” she says. “It truly takes a village to raise one child; and it takes a league of lady leaders to power and ensure their success, safety and future.”; EmbraceGirlPower.org.

Words Sable Marenne   |    Photo Manny Hernandez