GENaustin was originally called The Ophelia Project and was created in 1996 by 12 mothers in Austin, Texas who were concerned about declining self-esteem in middle school girls. Their goal was to empower girls and address issues like eating disorders, depression, and risky behaviors. They provide an after school program called ClubGEN led by trained high school students to help middle school girls build confidence and life skills through discussions of topics like body image, relationships, and media literacy. Studies show the program helps improve girls' school performance and reduce disciplinary issues.

1. By Aubrey Connaghan October 13, 2010