Even though women make up nearly half the workforce in the United States, less than one in three jobs in the math, science and technology fields are held
by women.
It’s statistics like these that led to the creation of an ingenious program that’s going head-on against this costly trend.
GUSTO or Girls Using Scientific Tools for Opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics is a product of the Spruce Street Community Development Corporation and the Fisk University Community Alliance.
Read more about the GUSTO program and hear from the program founder, counselors and the girls themselves as to how GUSTO is changing lives and even changing a community.
The summer camp serves about 50 girls, ages 9 to 15 from schools and neighborhoods across the city, and offers them 8 weeks of hands-on instruction focused heavily on math and science.
Activities are geared toward teaching the girls lessons they can use not only in school and careers – but in life. The girls learn to write a resume, balance a budget, follow a recipe – even debate a topic – all while having fun.
But this isn’t summer school. This is cutting edge learning by doing, watching, playing. And along the way, they are counseled, mentored and encouraged - toward achievement.
Already the GUSTO program has seen success. Eleven girls have graduated from the GUSTO program since its beginning and all 11 will be or are attending college. About one-third of those are pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.
You can help this amazing program continue to grow by making a donation to the GUSTO scholarship fund, which enables GUSTO to serve girls, regardless of their family income.
Make checks payable to:
Spruce Street Community Development Corporation
501 Spruce Street
Nashville, TN 37208
Contact us:
Ray Bullock
(615) 329-8605
website
THIS ISN’T SUMMER SCHOOL
GUSTO DIGITAL MAGAZINE
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This microsite and all the creative work associated with telling this
story were donated by people at Journal Communications, Inc. who care
about the GUSTO program and its survival.