Founded in 1997, GOAL has a strong history of providing expertise, programs, and training focused on adolescent girls. For the first 6 years of its existence, GOAL developed and delivered programs through a summer camp and several follow-up weekends throughout the school year. In 2003, in an effort to maximize the number of girls reached, GOAL's Board of Directors made the decision to change GOAL's program delivery model by collaborating with partners who need effective, girl-specific programming. This strategic decision allowed GOAL to capitalize on the strength of its experiential programs and the proven training model developed for program providers. Since 2004, GOAL's collaborative partnerships have impacted thousands of girls at partner sites both locally and nationally.

GOAL's pioneering founder, Kaffie McCullough, was working as a therapist in private practice. She was struck by how many seemingly successful women came to her for therapy with issues that revolved around low self-confidence and the lack of belief in their own power. Kaffie knew that developmentally a woman's sense of self and identity is formed during the years of early adolescence and she wanted to find a way to help girls navigate the challenges they face that impede their healthy self-development.

Kaffie led GOAL from its founding in 1997 until the spring of 2006; she created and built a strong organization with dynamic programming. With a thoughtful and intentional transition, she turned the reins over to her successor, Gail Rothman. Gail’s vision for GOAL will bring vital girl-centered programming to adolescent girls in all communities and shape a future generation of strong, confident and resilient women.