Global Village Project

GVP is the only middle school in the United States that serves exclusively refugee girls. Our students live in Clarkston, Georgia, one of the most diverse cities in the nation. As a nonprofit middle school, GVP provides a full-day, tuition-free academic program that serves 40-50 refugee girls from all over the world. The typical GVP student has been in the U.S. for less than three years and has missed an average of three years of school (and up to six).

GVP centers the needs and experiences of young women who face multiple barriers to their education - as refugees, newcomers, English Language Learners, and more. Our transformative educational model is designed to not only meet the needs of refugee young women, but also amplify the strengths, skills, and voices they bring to our learning community. Through the foundation they acquire at GVP, refugee girls gain the tools and support they need to become highly successful students and empowered citizens.

The impact of global conflicts is felt far beyond the headlines. Every day, millions of families are forced to flee their homes in search of safety and a fresh start. Many of these families find their way to the United States, bringing with them the hopes and dreams of a better life. Among them are young girls who have endured unimaginable hardships. Years of displacement have robbed them of vital schooling, and in times of scarcity, families are often forced to make heartbreaking decisions—sometimes prioritizing the education of boys over girls.

But when these young students arrive in the U.S., they bring with them not only challenges but remarkable strength. They carry with them a deep resilience, an unshakable determination, and an unwavering hope for the future. These girls and their families are survivors, and their potential is boundless. Whether they come from Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, Congo, Myanmar, or elsewhere, our students are not simply trying to catch up—they are building the foundation for their own futures, and for the future of their communities.

At GVP, we believe that education is more than just learning—it’s about empowerment. By continuing their education, our students don’t just open doors for themselves—they begin to lead. As they gain new skills, their confidence grows. They become the voices of change, not only for themselves but also for their families and the communities they call home. Whether they’re learning a new language, navigating healthcare systems, finding jobs, or engaging in their local economies, these young leaders are the bridge to a stronger, more connected future.

When our students succeed, their families thrive. When they are given the chance to grow, entire neighborhoods become more resilient. The opportunities they create ripple outward, strengthening the very fabric of our society. These young girls are not just tomorrow’s leaders—they are today’s changemakers, already shaping the world around them with their courage and vision.

On Georgia Gives Day, your generous support will help GVP continue to provide these extraordinary students with the resources, guidance, and opportunities they need to unlock their full potential. Together, we can give them the tools, encouragement, and education they need to build the bright future they deserve—and that we all need. 

For more information, please visit our website www.globalvillageproject.org