Inspiring Underserved Girls to Be Anything They Want to Be Social 4 Good Charity Spotlight: PINK SPACE THEORY

In the heart of Prince William County, a small but
mighty initiative is inspiring young, underserved
girls to embrace their mathematical potential and
break barriers in STEM fields. Pink Space Theory,
a nonprofit dedicated to advancing science,
technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM)
education, is making waves with its G.R.E.A.T. Math
Minds program. Recently, Social4Good (S4G)
partnered with Pink Space Theory to support
this growing and impactful program that is, most
importantly, building confidence in young girls with
a flair for math.

G.R.E.A.T. MATH MINDS: FOSTERING
CONFIDENCE & CURIOSITY
Pink Space Theory’s G.R.E.A.T. Math Minds
program stands for Girls who are Responsible
for their thoughts, Excited about learning new
things, and not afraid to Ask questions and
Take risks. This six-month cohort program is
specifically designed for girls in Grades 3-5
who exhibit a talent for mathematics. All of the girls participating in
the program attend Title I schools. Most identify as minorities, and
some are English language learners. The initiative provides a safe
and supportive environment where participants can expand their
knowledge, build confidence, and engage in hands-on learning
activities beyond the traditional classroom setting.
Since its inception in 2020, G.R.E.A.T. Math Minds has grown
exponentially, starting with nine participants at one school and
now serving almost 40 girls across four Title I elementary schools.
The program is making an impact: participants experience a 342%
increase in pre- and post-unit test scores, and 100% of them pass
the Math Standards of Learning (SOL) test, often advancing from
proficiency to excellence. Pink Space Theory has also developed
several corporate partnerships, exposing the girls to female leaders
and role models who are advancing in STEAM careers.

The need for programs like G.R.E.A.T. Math Minds is evident. In Prince
William County, only 79.33% of Black girls and 81.73% of Hispanic
girls pass the Math SOL test, compared to an overall passing rate of
86%. For girls from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, the
rate drops even further to 78.20%. G.R.E.A.T. Math Minds not only
addresses these disparities but also provides these young learners
with the tools and confidence to excel in mathematics and beyond.

SOCIAL4GOOD’S DECEMBER PROJECT: SUPPORTING FUTURE STEAM LEADERS Recognizing the importance of Pink Space Theory’s mission, S4G dedicated its December project to supporting the G.R.E.A.T. Math Minds program. S4G set a goal of creating 40 STEAM kits for program participants at Neabsco, Loch Lomond, Dale City, and Featherstone Elementary Schools. By the end of the project, S4G raised an impressive $3,287.24 in in-kind and financial support. Funds were used to purchase high-quality books, such as Calculating Chimpanzees, Brainy Bees, and Other Animals with Mind-Blowing Mathematical Abilities and The Lemonade War for students focusing on multiplication and division, as well as Earth is Big: A Book of Comparisons and Sir Cumference Speaks Volumes for students focusing on measurement. The kits also included engaging activities, a STEAM-themed graphic tee, and a canvas bag imprinted with inspirational messages. The kits allowed students to explore math concepts with their families over winter break, reinforcing the idea that learning can be both enjoyable and collaborative. On December 9, S4G members and Pink Space Theory leaders gathered for a “Social & Learn” event where attendees assembled the STEAM kits and created bracelets with inspirational messages for the girls. Monica Nichols, founder of Pink Space Theory, and members of the nonprofit board shared inspiring stories about their work and the program’s impact. “Research shows that early exposure to hands-on STEM activities through programs like ours help students, especially those from underrepresented groups, develop a positive identity in math and science. Our program oers real-world problem-solving opportunities and exposure to math-related careers. At the end of the day, our G.R.E.A.T. Math Minds Program is about building confidence and fostering a sense of empowerment and excitement in girls who excel in math and science so that they can envision themselves being anything they want to be,” stated Nichols in her inspirational address to members. Pink Space Theory’s goal is to expand the G.R.E.A.T. Math Minds program to all 34 Title I schools in Prince William County. With continued support from corporate partners and organizations like S4G, this vision is well within reach. For those looking to get involved, Pink Space Theory welcomes volunteers, and partnerships to help expand their programs and reach more students. Visit www.pinkspacetheory. org to learn more about their mission and initiatives. About Social4Good: S4G is an all-volunteer, grassroots organization that brings together engaged women who want to meet new people and support the organizations that make our community strong. Each month, this column will highlight S4G’s monthly project to raise awareness of critical needs in our community and local nonprofits making a dierence. To learn more about S4G or to support local nonprofits, visit www.social4good.community.