PACE Center for Girls Leon

PACE Leon was the 6th center to open in January 1994. The opening of the center was a grassroots movement that began with Marge and Matt Masterman inviting founder, Vickie Burke to a Zonta meeting to talk about the PACE Program. Members of the club quickly organized an advisory board and a funding request for both state and federal funds was submitted. Jackie Wilson, the founding board chair, with the support of the Masterman’s, Bettye Roberts, Dorothy Binger, Susan Shebel, Dexter Martin and others located a building on the corner of Jackson Bluff and Lake Bradford Road for $1.00 the first year. After scrubbing, fresh paint and carpet, the center opened with 30 girls, an Executive Director, Program Manager, 3 teachers, a Therapist and Administrative Assistant. The first graduates marched down the steps in the courtyard of Associated Industries to receive their diploma in June 1995. The program quickly outgrew the building and with help of the late Judge Charles Miner, the program relocated where it is today. Since opening the center has served more than 1,000 girls.

Our Mission:

PACE provides girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training and advocacy.

Our Philosophy:

PACE values all girls and young women, believing each one deserves an opportunity to find her voice, achieve her potential and celebrate a life defined by responsibility, dignity, serenity and grace.