1. Girls’ LEAP Self-Defense Program, 18-20 hours
For girls aged 8-18
Girls' LEAP Self-Defense Programs consists of a  20 hour curriculum that combines physical self-defense "escape" skills with conflict resolution skills such as healthy boundary setting, violence de-escalation techniques, ways to say "no" and the development of courage, confidence and self-esteem.

Our programs are taught by inter-generational teaching teams consisting of adult Teachers assisted by undergraduate and teen mentors ensuring a 4:1 student to teacher ratio. 

Programs are scheduled in a variety of formats:

• 10 week sessions
• Intensive Weekend Sessions
• School Vacation programs
• Saturday Programs

Girls' LEAP also offers a variety of 2-4 hour workshops that focus on de-escalation techniques rather than physical skills.  These are appropriate for Mother-Daughter Groups, College Groups and Corporate Trainings.

Girls' LEAP is happy to tailor our programs to suit your needs.  For more information contact Kelly Clarke or call 617-787-2112.

Teen Mentor Program, school year commitment, 2-5 hours/per week
For girls aged 14-18
Our ongoing teen leadership and employment program. Teen Mentors build leadership skills by coaching younger and near age girls on LEAP programs and raising community awareness about the violence that girls face.  Teens are selected through an application process.

“LEAP feels like a family to me. I’ve felt supported in other organizations,
but not like this. We all share a powerful belief in what we’re doing.  When I teach a program, the girls help me learn. Every girl should have that chance.”
–Teen Mentor, age 16

2. Youth Speak-Out, 1 hour- 1 ½ hour
For middle or high school aged youth. Appropriate for girls only or co-ed groups.
An interactive youth-led workshop. The Youth Speak-Out is designed to raise awareness about the everyday violence that impacts different levels of communities, and to educate participants on some of the ways Girls’ LEAP addresses this issue.
Introductory Workshop, 2-3 hours
For girls aged 8-18
An introduction to basic self-defense and awareness skills. Participants learn verbal de-escalation skills and personal boundary setting.

“I learned that responding with violence   isn’t the best choice.”
            -workshop participant, age16

3. Voices on Violence, 1 hour
For middle or high school aged girls
A one-time discussion group.  Voices on Violence is designed to be offered as a complement to LEAP program offerings by fostering reflection and discussion about harassment, violence, safety and other issues concerning girls.  Site staff are encouraged to participate.

“Self-reflection is really important.  So many of [the girls] don’t know what is really at the root of their problems and anger”
- group participant, Youth Worker

"Voices on Violence" report