The funding will be distributed to 10 Chicago-area nonprofit organizations serving girls ages 10 to 19. According to the Obama Foundation, the grants are expected to reach more than 2,200 girls.
"We want to help them see their infinite possibilities," Obama Foundation CEO Valerie Jarrett said in an exclusive interview with ABC7.
Jarrett said the foundation carefully evaluates organizations before awarding funding.
"We do a lot of research to find out which organizations have the biggest impact and we take a close look at the girls that they're serving and the difference they are making on their lives and we do a lot of due diligence to make sure our money is going to good hands," Jarrett said.
One of the organizations selected is Box United, which uses boxing to help girls build confidence and strength.
"It feels so surreal to be a part of," said Box United founder Mary Kate Vanecko. "Thank you for taking the time to be so intentional about the programming. The funding is incredible but whole infrastructure around it is really amazing," Vanecko said.
Praize Productions Inc., a Bronzeville-based performing arts organization, also received funding through the program.
"We get overlooked and under-resourced and Girls opportunity Alliance makes sure that we are at the forefront and not an afterthought in our communities," said founder Enneréssa LaNette.
Jarrett said the initiative reflects Michelle Obama's longstanding commitment to supporting girls. "And why is that? Because she says those girls are just like she was," Jarrett said.
The mission is also personal for Jarrett, a South Side native.
"I know these girls. I've seen the challenges. Talent is ubiquitous, it's opportunity is not. And we provide them with an opportunity," Jarrett said.
The $500,000 will be granted to 10 organizations serving and empowering girls in Chicago. The funding will reach more than 2,200 girls between the ages of 10 and 19, supporting work that spans mental health care, arts training, athletics, refugee support, and more.
For a full list of grant recipients, visit the Obama Foundation's announcement page.