Lincoln Nonprofit Creates Space for High School Girls to Connect, Grow, and Lead
Lincoln, Calif. – Soroptimist International of Lincoln proudly hosted Empower Her Day, a special event created to inspire and empower high school girls through a day of connection, movement, mindfulness, leadership, and personal growth. The event took place on January 30, 2026, at McBean Pavilion in Lincoln.
Close to 140 high school girls attended from Lincoln High School, Twelve Bridges High School, Phoenix/Atlas High School, and the local homeschool community, coming together for a powerful day centered on self-confidence, wellness, and finding their voice.
"This day is about helping young women recognize their potential and step into their power," said Elena Herricks, Education Chair. "Empower Her Day reminds every high school girl that her voice matters, her dreams are valid, and she is supported by a community that believes in her."
Day of engagement
The event featured a full day of engaging sessions, including keynote speakers, movement workshops, and panel discussions focused on themes such as self-expression, courage, rest, confidence, and using one's voice. The schedule included sessions like Power of a Dream, Power of Expression, Power of Resilience, Power of an Authentic Voice and an interactive panel designed to encourage girls to show up authentically and boldly.
Stacy Rea Thomas, President of Soroptimist International of Lincoln, emphasized the importance of investing in young women early:
"Empower Her Day reflects Soroptimist's mission to ensure women and girls have the resources and opportunities to reach their full potential. By focusing on high school girls, we are helping shape the next generation of leaders in our community."
Throughout the day, participants heard from speakers, survivors, educators, and advocates who are making a difference across Placer County and beyond.
Encouragement, tools, & real-life stories of resilience
"Our goal is to surround these girls with encouragement, tools, and real-life stories of resilience," said Diane Silveira, Recording Secretary. "We want every student to leave knowing she belongs, she is capable, and she has a future filled with possibility."
Career Guidance Counselor, Emily Barney, at Phoenix / Atlas High School, added that the event is especially powerful because of the community support behind it.
"Empower Her Day is about lifting up high school girls at a critical time in their lives. Confidence grows when young women realize they're not alone and that an entire community is cheering them on."
"This was an amazing opportunity," said Soroptimist member Ana Lauritsen, "I can tell you if I had these tools when I was in high school, my life would be different."
Soroptimist International of Lincoln's mission is to help women and girls achieve their full potential through access to education, resources, and opportunities. Community donations and partnerships help make programs like Empower Her Day possible.