CAMDEN, N.J. – For more than a decade, the nonprofit “I Dare to Care” has been a steady presence in Camden neighborhoods, providing one‑on‑one mentorship to girls from elementary school through high school. Founded in 2008 by community leader Pamela Grayson‑Baltimore, the program was created to honor the female mentors who guided her during her own upbringing.
Six pillars guide the work
Grayson‑Baltimore explains that the organization operates around six pillars: youth empowerment, education, mental health and wellness, community outreach, advocacy, and personal development. “Our mission is to empower youth to recognize the value of their lives through mentoring,” she said. “A lot of times children are seen and not heard. This is an opportunity for them to recognize who they are, what their passions are, and how to push forward.”
The program matches each girl with a dedicated adult mentor who meets regularly for activities ranging from academic tutoring and college‑prep workshops to creative arts projects and guided discussions about coping with loss or stress. By fostering consistent, supportive relationships, the mentors help participants develop confidence, set goals, and navigate challenges that often accompany life in an underserved community.
Impact on the community
Since its inception, “I Dare to Care” has served hundreds of girls across Camden, many of whom have gone on to graduate high school, enroll in college, or secure apprenticeships. Parents report noticeable improvements in their children’s self‑esteem and school performance. Local schools have welcomed the program’s volunteers, noting that the added mentorship complements classroom instruction and reduces dropout rates.
In addition to one‑on‑one mentoring, the organization hosts community events such as health‑and‑wellness fairs, leadership workshops, and volunteer service days. These gatherings bring together families, local businesses, and faith‑based groups, reinforcing a network of support that aligns with the city’s broader efforts to strengthen families and neighborhoods.
How to get involved
Community members who wish to become mentors, donate, or learn more about upcoming events can visit the program’s website. The site provides details on volunteer requirements, upcoming workshops, and stories from current participants. Grayson‑Baltimore emphasizes that the program thrives on local involvement: “We rely on the generosity of Camden families, churches, and businesses to keep our doors open and our services free for every girl who walks through them.”
With a clear focus on empowering the next generation of young women, “I Dare to Care” continues to embody the spirit of community service and parental‑rights advocacy that many Camden families hold dear. As the program looks ahead, its leadership hopes to expand mentorship capacity, reach more neighborhoods, and deepen partnerships with local schools and faith institutions.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
