I know firsthand what can happen when a girl is surrounded by people who help her see possibilities beyond her circumstances.

Growing up in North Philadelphia, I was smart, curious, and ambitious—but I didn’t always have examples of what success could look like for me. Then I attended Philadelphia High School for Girls, where I found academic excellence, sisterhood, and people who saw my potential. The friendships I formed there helped encourage me toward college and remain part of my life more than 20 years later.

Today, that journey has come full circle. I now lead the Advancement team at Girls Inc. of Greater Philadelphia & Southern New Jersey, helping create opportunities for more than 3,300 girls each year.

And now, this mission is even more personal. I have a 5-year-old daughter who is part of Girls Inc. programming. I get to watch her benefit from the kind of environment that helped shape me—one that encourages girls to be confident, curious, ambitious, and unapologetic about what they can become.

I want that opportunity for my daughter—and for every girl we serve.

That’s why I’m asking my family, friends, colleagues, and community to help me Serve It Forward.

? Make a gift of any amount. Every contribution helps create more opportunities for girls.

? Want to Serve It Forward with me on the court? Make a contribution of $50 or more and join me on November 15—whether you play, want to learn, or just want to have fun for a great cause.

Someone helped me see what was possible for my future. Now I get to help create those possibilities for my daughter—and thousands of girls coming behind her. That’s why I’m Serving It Forward. ?