Space of Her Own is a strengths-based program.  We recognize the unique attributes of each SOHO girl, help her develop her talents, and encourage her to shine.

SOHO fosters growth through one-to-one mentoring, engagement in life skills instruction, creative art and carpentry activities, healthy dinners and meaningful community service projects.

Partnership with schools

SOHO partners with local schools once a year to select girls for each program site. Girls are referred to SOHO by school social workers, who identify prospective participants who are in need of pro-social and academic skill development. Risk factors may include history of trauma, abuse or neglect; an incarcerated or court-involved family member; an overcrowded home; and poor peer relationships. Girls are required to write an essay stating why they are interested in joining SOHO. Program Managers visit each girl’s home to meet with her family and complete an interview before she is accepted into SOHO.

5th Grade – Mentors, Life Skills and Transformations

During the first program year, SOHO participants attend weekly meetings throughout fifth grade, where they receive life skills instruction from a diverse group of professionals and community volunteers. Girls and mentors enjoy dinner together, participate in team-building activities, and work on an arts or STEM project. One week they might construct a shadow box, while another week they may complete a self-portrait or ceramics piece.

The first year of the program culminates in the transformation of each girl’s bedroom, HGTV’s Trading Spaces-style. Girls decorate their spaces with their own art and carpentry projects as well as furniture and other items that they select with their mentors. Girls may share their spaces with siblings or parents, but each one ends the program year with a true “Space of Her Own.”

Middle School – SOHO Club

During their middle school years, girls and mentors join the SOHO Club mentoring program. SOHO Club participants engage in a variety of fun events and activities that promote long-term mentoring bonds. Girls continue to work on life skills, come together for community service projects, and engage in leadership development.