Michelle Obama has pledged more than $1 million to young girls.
The Girls Opportunity Alliance, a program of the Obama Foundation, supports girls worldwide through education by partnering with local, community-based organizations, according to its website. The alliance’s latest million-dollar pledge will support 25 grassroots organizations across 15 countries.
In an Instagram post, the alliance said these organizations provide scholarships in Kenya, combat gender-based violence in Brazil, and teach leadership skills in India and Sierra Leone, among many other efforts.
Obama announced the pledge on Oct. 11, International Day of the Girl, a global movement that uplifts and promotes girls’ voices, actions, and leadership, according to the United Nations.
“Happy International Day of the Girl. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to meet so many extraordinary girls from all around the world, and today I’m thinking of the stories they shared,” Obama explained in the Instagram video. “I’m thinking of the smiles on their faces, the resolve in their eyes to get their education no matter the obstacles. I have always believed that every girl holds a unique promise, a special way that she can impact the lives of those around her and maybe even the world.”
She continued, “That’s why investing in girls isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s the smart thing to do to ensure a brighter future for all of us. The Girls Opportunity Alliance has been committed to investing in girls for years, lifting up the grassroots leaders and groups that are helping girls around the world get the education they deserve.”
Obama encouraged people to join the alliance by visiting its website, sharing inspiring stories, getting involved in their communities, and donating.
“I hope you’ll consider joining the Girls Opportunity Alliance in this important work. Donate what you can,” Obama said, per the video.
Through GoFundMe, the Girls Opportunity Alliance has received more than $12 million in donations since it was founded in 2018.