Small Steps, Big Impact: 15 Years of Compassionate Change with Girls Giving Back
Housing is more than just a roof—it’s the foundation for staying connected to loved ones, maintaining employment, and nurturing mental and physical well-being. While Girls Giving Back (GGB) doesn’t operate shelters directly, their impact on shelter environments across the Puget Sound has been nothing short of transformative.
As GGB celebrates its 15th anniversary, we sat down with founder Teresa Valley to reflect on the journey, the partnerships, and the powerful ripple effect of small, consistent acts of kindness.
“I am so grateful to have supported our shelter community for the past 15 years,” Teresa shared. “Through this work, we’ve built strong, lasting partnerships with shelter leaders and residents—relationships that continue to inspire compassionate change in shelter programs and the lives they touch.”
What began in 2009 as a heartfelt effort to strengthen the mother-daughter bond and give back to the community has grown into a movement. Girls Giving Back has become a voice for those often unheard, a support system for those in transition, and a catalyst for raising the standard of care in shelters.
“Over the years, my commitment has deepened,” Teresa said. “Our big-picture goal has always been to elevate the experience of care in our community shelters. We lead with compassion—not just for the outcome, but for the process of change itself. That’s where the magic happens.”
This past year marked a new chapter. Girls Giving Back transitioned into Be Kind 5, a broader giving-back initiative designed to expand its reach and amplify its impact. The mission remains the same: to serve with heart, to lead with empathy, and to inspire others to take action—one small step at a time.
“Be Kind 5 is a beautiful new home for our mission,” Teresa said. “It allows us to grow, to share what we’ve learned, and to continue creating spaces of dignity and hope.”
As we look ahead, Teresa leaves us with a powerful reminder:
“My hope for this year is simple: that each of us finds our spark to create change in the world. Because when we take small steps together, we create big, lasting impact.”
With gratitude,
Teresa Valley
GGB Founder
