Pace released its latest annual Impact Report, “A Legacy Built on the Belief of Girls,” highlighting its transformative community impact and the latest data on academic and social services support provided to middle and high school girls ages 11-17 across Florida and Georgia. Since its founding in 1985, Pace has positively impacted more than 40,000 girls, helping them achieve academic success, mental well-being, and brighter futures. 

“We are investing in expanded mental health supports, deepening community-based services, and strengthening our academic programs. We are exploring new ways to bring the Pace Model to more girls and families through our Reach Program, and we are working to ensure long-term stability so our impact continues for generations,” said Yessica Cancel, Interim President and CEO. “When we uplift and empower young women, we create a ripple effect that strengthens families, neighborhood schools, and entire communities. This report highlights the real, measurable impact of the investment in girls’ futures and our continued commitment to ensuring every girl has a path to success.” 

Pace provides girls with access to academic instruction, counseling, and therapy, all rooted in a trauma-informed and girl-centered approach. In addition, girls receive life coaching and career and college readiness programs to develop essential life skills such as personal hygiene, financial literacy, and job readiness. These resources are made available at no cost to the girls or their families, removing financial barriers to education and well-being. 

Pace’s impact is best reflected in the stories of the young women it serves. Mileigh shared: 

“When I came to Pace, I was very lost. I was not attending school, dealing with a lot of anxiety, and not picking the best people to be around. Pace helped me get on the right path in life. Without it, I don’t know where I would be. Now I’m enrolled in the Early Childhood Education program at Marchman Technical College, where I received the Academic Achievement Award, and I’m working full-time at a private preschool academy. I’ve become more of a leader and mentor. And now, even though things get hard, or I sometimes feel like I want to give up, I remember how far I’ve come and just imagine what life is going to be like in a couple of years. I KNOW I’m going to make it.”   

Over the past year, Pace has taken significant steps to expand its impact: 

Key Program Impact Data: 

  • More than 3,000 girls served in 21 communities 
  • 9 out of 10 girls are engaged in their community, measured by enrollment in school, higher education, or employment 
  • 8 out of 10 girls improved healthy social relationships with peers and family members 
  • 8 out of 10 girls improved academically 

Pace remains committed to listening and learning from the girls it serves and the broader community to build evidence of lasting impact. To learn more about how Pace is transforming lives and shaping futures, visit pacecenter.org.