Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta celebrates 50 years of service

A community response to tragedy can become the foundation for lasting institutional impact when it is paired with a clear mission, sustained leadership, and operational discipline. As Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta celebrates 50 years of service, CEO Tiffany Collie-Bailey and Marietta Mayor Steve Tumlin join today’s episode of The Small Business Show to share how a local initiative grew into a multi-county organization that serves tens of thousands of families. The organization has supported more than 140,000 girls since its founding and now operates dozens of programs across seven counties, with a footprint spanning 13 counties in Georgia.

The organization’s origins trace back to January 1972, following the murder of Debbie Lynn Randall, a young girl who lacked a safe place to go after school. In response, community leaders, volunteers, and city officials rallied to create a dedicated space focused on safety, development, and opportunity for girls. That effort led to the formation of the Girls Club of Marietta, later expanding into Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta as part of a national network.

"She was the guiding light... We saw a need for young ladies to have a safe place where they could be young ladies."

From its earliest days, the organization relied on cross-sector collaboration. Local government, school systems, volunteers, and private citizens contributed time, resources, and leadership. Mayor Tumlin, then a young local business owner, participated in the organization’s early development, helping build facilities and recruit community support despite limited funding. That grassroots model established credibility and trust that continues to anchor the organization decades later.

Today, Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta operates approximately 25 programs that address academic achievement, workforce readiness, wellness, and civic engagement. School-based initiatives integrate STEM education, technology development, and presentation skills, often in partnership with private-sector employers that commit staff time every week. Girls work on real-world problems, develop solutions, and present outcomes tied to community needs.

"This 50th year marks not just the journey of what it has taken to get here, but also where we're going and the needs that still exist." — Tiffany Collie-Bailey

After-school programs focus on academic recovery, literacy, and social development. The organization responds directly to learning loss exacerbated by the pandemic, with a significant portion of participants reading below grade level. Tutoring, math instruction, and comprehension support are core parts of daily programming, alongside wellness education, conflict resolution, and emotional support.

Leadership development plays a central role. Each site operates a structured girls council, with elected officers responsible for governance and rule-setting within their programs. Civic education initiatives, including voting awareness and community action projects, reinforce accountability and participation. Local elected officials and community leaders regularly engage with participants to expand exposure to career paths and leadership roles.

Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta also operates as a family and community resource hub. Parent programming includes financial literacy, digital skills, grief counseling, and wellness education. Virtual and in-person sessions provide consistent access, while a licensed clinical social worker supports counseling needs. These services recognize that individual outcomes depend on household stability and access to support systems.

Food security and economic pressure are directly addressed through a weekly food pantry serving families affected by benefit disruptions and rising costs. The organization distributes thousands of pounds of food each week, reinforcing its role as an operational partner during periods of economic stress.

The 50th anniversary year serves both as a reflection point and a forward-looking strategy. Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta shows how a values-driven organization can grow responsibly and adapt to changing conditions while preparing the next generation of leaders and service providers.

Upcoming 50th Anniversary Events:

• March 14, 2026: Mother and Daughter Summit focused on wellness and AI readiness.
• May 7, 2026: Documentary film watch party hosted by Cox Enterprises.

There are also alumni engagement and community events throughout the year to celebrate the organization’s history and impact. To view the full calendar, click here.