GIRLS ROCK LAB⚡️

OUR GOAL

Girls Rock Lab is a Spark Central summer camp that provides workshops, mentors, and a space where girls are empowered as leaders in musical creativity. We value diversity and we welcome girls, non-binary, and transgender kids of any identity and background to participate.

Finding Her Rhythm at Girls Rock Lab

How creativity and compassion helped one camper shine

In the first session of Girls Rock Lab, we welcomed a group of campers who were new to the program, each bringing their own energy, interests, and ways of engaging. One camper in particular stood out. From the start, it was clear she had a vibrant spirit and a deep need for movement in order to stay engaged, something not noted in any paperwork, but obvious to our team as we got to know her.

On the first day, during group song practice, she separated herself from the circle and quietly watched the river from the window. When a volunteer couldn’t coax her back, a staff member sat beside her. She shared that she was tired, not just physically, but from adjusting to new rules and expectations. With a calm conversation about why those rules exist to support everyone, her resistance softened. She wasn’t quite ready to rejoin the group, but she appreciated being seen and heard. After a few moments of reflection and watching the sunlight on the water, she rejoined on her own terms.

Over the next few days, staff continued to check in, supporting her with short breaks when needed and gently encouraging her participation. At first, she stayed quiet during band practice, but by day three, she was waving hello and singing with newfound confidence.

On the final day, just as her group was coming together, a conflict arose. Her natural movement and energy became a distraction for the group, and a bandmate responded with a harsh comment. The camper immediately withdrew again. But this time, she was more willing to talk through what happened. With support from staff, she expressed her feelings and came up with a creative solution: using playdough to channel her energy in a way that didn’t distract others. When she returned to her group, the transformation was visible. She collaborated with confidence, and when the session wrapped up, she asked for a hug instead of a high five.

This is the heart of Girls Rock Lab. Creating space for every camper to be seen, heard, and supported in their creative journey. Through empathy, encouragement, and a little improvisation, we help young people discover their voice, on stage and beyond.

Supporters

In 2024 we served 36 GRLS grades 3-7 and they had a rockin time. Thank you to our teaching artists and mentors, and to all of our amazing volunteers who made it possible.

Thank you to our sponsor, Global Credit Union, for their support of Girls Rock Lab. 👏⭐️