Our History

Girls Inc. of Bristol was founded in 1950 by the Pilot Club and local community leaders with the mission to provide young girls with social, cultural, and educational opportunities they might not otherwise have.

Starting from humble beginnings in a garage, the organization quickly grew with the support of local businesses and civic groups. In 1951, it became affiliated with the National Girls Club, and over the years, it expanded its reach through numerous building projects, including the acquisition of the Mary Martin Bachman House in 1977. The organization evolved in 1990 to align with Girls Inc. branding and continued to grow with new facilities, an expanding outreach program, and the development of critical partnerships. Key milestones include receiving the National Outstanding Affiliate of the Year Award in 2006, expanding services to include Family Life Education, and opening new centers in surrounding communities. Notably, Girls Inc. of Bristol launched a capital campaign in 2021 to fund a new gym and community center, which culminated in the opening of the Strong, Smart, and Bold Community Center in 2023. Today, the organization continues to impact thousands of girls in the region, offering a range of programs that empower them to achieve their full potential.