Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: International Girls Ensemble
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: IGE
Mailing Address: 91 Leonard Street
City: NY
State: NY
Postal Code: 10013
Main Phone: 9176787937
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://intlgirlsensemble.com/
Employer ID Number: 83-2016718
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 04/16/2025
Requested Amount: $8,000

Project Title: Acting Through Anxiety: Theatre for Girls’ Self-Discovery and Empowerment
Project Description:

International Girls Ensemble (IGE) is a leadership organization championing the voices of girls on stage and in the community through theatre. IGE seeks funding to support an educational theatre program at MS 391, in collaboration with school social worker Michelle Jervis and her after-school “Girls’ Circle” club. Over 16 weeks, 20 young women (ages 10–14) will participate in 90-minute weekly sessions focused on managing anxiety, navigating stress, and developing leadership through theatre-based activities.

Participants will explore coping strategies, conflict resolution, and self-expression through improvisation, storytelling, and character development. Sessions will combine reflective literacy exercises with verbal communication, helping participants process emotions and strengthen self-regulation skills. Trauma-informed practices co-developed with Michelle Jervis will create a safe, supportive space for personal growth.

The program will culminate in a community showcase where participants will present an original theatre piece, amplifying their voices and celebrating their achievements. This program has a proven track record of success: a 2024 pilot at MS 391 was featured in Women in Higher Education for its impact on student confidence, community building, and social-emotional growth. By the end of the program, 93% of participants improved focus in school, 91% strengthened collaboration skills, and self-regulation increased from 79% to 93%. Participants demonstrated increased engagement in academics and leadership in and out of the classroom.

Funding will directly support teaching artist fees, enabling IGE to hire Trisha Jeffrey, a Bronx native, professional actor with Broadway credits, and experienced IGE teaching artist who previously led this program. As a NYC public school alumna, Trisha brings professional expertise and a deep connection to the community. Funding will also compensate Michelle Jervis for her after-hours contributions and cover outreach materials, costumes, and props sourced from Materials for the Arts.

With a strong foundation and demonstrated results, IGE looks forward to continuing this impactful program and empowering even more girls to reach their full potential.

Total Project Budget: $10,200

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): MS 391 various spaces, Materials for the Arts free theatre making supplies

Project Duration: 16 weeks
Geographical Area Served: Bronx, New York
Age Group To Be Served: 10-14 years old

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Amanda
Contact Last Name: McDowall
Contact Title: Co-Founder, Executive Director
Contact Phone: 9176787937
Contact Email: Amanda@intlgirlsensemble.com