The Gems Camp

The GEMS Camp, launched in summer 2010 as a free 6-week Saturday camp, preparing urban girls in grades 7 through 9 to be well-rounded, confident, and ready for college and beyond. Saki Milton, a middle school mathematics teacher was inspired by her 10th grade students who had to complete a yearlong personal project with just cash. She decided to use her spring break vacation to create a personal project of her own. Her passion for mathematics and love for serving youths led her to a STEM camp for girls in neighborhoods similar to her own as a child. Because of her experience teaching in affluent and poor schools, Ms. Milton saw numerous disparities between the two and wanted to bring a quality, engaging learning experience for girls who attend large urban schools that aren’t receiving the free, quality public education that every child deserves. The GEMS Camp began with six student mentors and two instructors. In August 2010, thirty girls were honored at a special graduation ceremony. In 2011, The GEMS Camp partnered with another successful organization, Circle of Support (COS), a 501(c)(3) organization to offset the costs of the camp. Facilities, lunch, field trips, and instructors were provided by COS allowing Saki to focus on executing instruction and character building activities for 30 girls. The GEMS Camp has a unique educational niche by targeting underserved girls (minorities and low-income) with high-quality, free and extensive educational services, an estimated value of $1500. • July 2010 – Received mini-grant from the National Girls Collaborative Project (NGCP) • July 2010 – Campers raised $425 for library supplies via carwash • August 2010 – Featured on CBS11 Weekend News • August 2010 – Featured in Oak Cliff People, a local area newspaper • August 2011 – Featured in Dallas Examiner, an online local news site