PACE, A Pioneer Investment
After growing concerns about an increase in female teenage delinquency, Pioneers in Florida decided to act. They embarked on a state-wide project to address the issue by partnering with PACE Center for Girls, a nonprofit organization with 17 locations throughout Florida.
PACE offers a non-residential delinquency prevention program for the unique needs of girls ages 12 to 18 who need support. Its mission to provide girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training, and advocacy. By providing a safe, nurturing environment for growth and development, PACE helps to prevent school withdrawal, juvenile delinquency, teen pregnancy, substance abuse and welfare dependency.
The Florida Pioneers were so impressed with PACE’s mission that they decided to join in to help. Members of each Florida Pioneer unit visited the PACE center in their area and presented them with a gift bag containing school supplies, jewelry, agenda books, journals, gift cards, and other items specifically for girls.
From there, this project was adapted to suit the needs of local PACE locations and the interests of local Pioneers. Some Pioneers then returned to PACE to help mentor the girls in reading projects and to help with events like prom night and graduation. They also donated additional items, like Kindle Fires to encourage reading, DVD players, birthday cakes and more.
By doing this work, Pioneers helped PACE Centers support girls throughout their academic, home, and social lives. This partnership enhanced the lives of so many girls and young women who are desperately trying to create a better life for themselves.