This month, we're excited to introduce Girls at Work, Inc., an organization dedicated to empowering girls from underserved communities by teaching them critical skills and building their confidence through hands-on woodworking programs.

A Vision from Humble Beginnings

Founded in 2000 by Elaine Hamel, Girls at Work has grown from a simple idea into a thriving organization that has positively impacted thousands of girls. Elaine's vision was sparked when she realized the potential of woodworking as a means to empower young girls, particularly those facing challenges in underserved communities. Reflecting on the journey, Elaine shares, "Witnessing Girls at Work, Inc. grow from humble beginnings to a thriving organization making a difference in our community has been incredibly rewarding. Our commitment to providing girls with the skills and confidence to succeed remains unwavering."

The Mission

At its core, the mission of Girls at Work is to empower girls by equipping them with tools—both literal and figurative—that foster confidence and independence. Through their programs, girls learn valuable woodworking skills, teamwork, and problem-solving, all of which contribute to their personal growth and future success.

Key Milestones Through the Years

• 1998-1999 Elaine builds a barn in New Boston, NH, laying the foundation for Girls at Work.
• 2000 Elaine secures a $4,700 grant from a student-led initiative, marking the official start of Girls at Work.
• 2001-2005 Despite challenges, Elaine perseveres, working as a contractor to fund the purchase of necessary equipment for the program.
• 2006 Elaine attends the New England American Camping Association Conference, gaining the attention of camp directors and expanding the program to summer camps across New England.
• 2006-2010 The program flourishes, with girls building structures like sheds and picnic tables at summer camps. Elaine dedicates herself full-time to the program.
• 2010 Girls at Work partners with local nonprofits, offering summer classes in New Boston and expanding its reach.
• 2013 Elaine designs a training program for camp staff to teach woodworking, further spreading the program’s impact.
• 2014 Girls at Work finds a new home in an old school building in Manchester, NH, thanks to the help of volunteers and community support.

• 2016-2017 The program expands within the Manchester School District, with volunteers building a kitchen and adding resources to meet the basic needs of participants.
• 2018 The Kindness Room is created to provide essentials like clothing and groceries to girls and their families.
• 2019 The TeamBuild Program is launched, engaging corporations in the mission of empowering girls through building.

• 2020 Girls at Work moves to a new location at 200 Bedford Street in Manchester, NH, thanks to extensive renovations supported by volunteers. Despite the pandemic, the program continues through virtual instruction and building kits delivered to girls’ homes.
• 2023 The organization expands, adding a larger Kindness Room and a STEAM room, enhancing its programming for middle school girls.  

As we spotlight Girls at Work this month, we encourage you to learn more about their mission and consider how you can support their efforts to shape the futures of young girls in our community. For more information, visit girlswork.org.