UPCOMING EVENTS AT IMARA!

Returning to Victorville: Our Second IMARA Clinic

Building Confidence. Strengthening Connections. Continuing Our Mission.

Following the success of our first IMARA workshop in Victorville this past July, we are excited to return for our second clinic on November 7, 2026!

Our first workshop brought together 16 girls for a day of meaningful conversations, self-discovery, and confidence-building activities. Now, we're building on that foundation by creating another opportunity for girls to recognize their strengths, develop confidence, and connect with others in a positive and supportive environment.

This second clinic reflects our commitment to building lasting relationships in the communities we serve. We want every girl who participates in IMARA to know that she is valued, capable, and deserving of opportunities to grow.

We're excited to continue our journey in Victorville, one girl and one workshop at a time.

Location:

Victorville Activities Center

15075 Hesperia Rd

Victorville, CA 92395

Helping girls build confidence, access opportunity, and move forward with purpose

We provide mentorship, access, and practical support that helps girls build confidence and take action.

OUR Mission

The IMARA Project exists to empower girls through mentorship, education, and meaningful community support. We are committed to building confidence, resilience, leadership, and life skills by creating safe, encouraging environments where girls feel seen, heard, valued, and supported. Through trusted relationships, real-world learning experiences, and strong community connections, we help girls navigate challenges, recognize their potential, and move forward with clarity, purpose, and confidence in who they are becoming.

Our Story

Women leaders investing in the next generation

The IMARA Project was founded from a simple but powerful belief: every girl deserves guidance, encouragement, and access to women who will help her see what is possible for her future.

As a women- and veteran-owned organization, The IMARA Project is proudly led by women at every level of leadership, including our Board of Directors and organizational leadership team. Our mentors are women who are deeply rooted in their communities, accomplished in their professions, and passionate about giving back through service, guidance, and meaningful connection.

The vision for The IMARA Project began when our founder recognized a growing need within the High Desert communities for stronger mentorship, positive role models, and supportive spaces designed specifically to help girls build confidence, resilience, and direction. Rather than waiting for change, she chose to help create it.

The IMARA Project brings together women from diverse backgrounds who understand the importance of being seen, supported, and encouraged. Many of our mentors have overcome challenges of their own and now use their experiences, education, leadership, and heart to invest in the next generation.

We are more than a mentorship organization. We are a growing community of women committed to helping girls navigate life with confidence, discover their strengths, and realize they are capable of far more than they may believe.

imara in action!

11 JULY 2026

On July 11, 2026, The IMARA Project proudly hosted its first Girls Leadership & Confidence Workshop in Victorville, California. Sixteen girls came together for an afternoon of leadership, confidence building, creativity, and connection.

Through hands-on activities, vision boards, team challenges, and meaningful discussions, participants explored their strengths, developed leadership skills, and built confidence in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Thanks to our volunteers, donors, and community partners, every participant attended at no cost. Together, we are empowering girls to navigate challenges, pursue their goals, and lead with confidence.

‍ ‍

Vision Boards

Girls transformed their dreams into a visual roadmap by creating vision boards that reflected their goals, aspirations, and the future they envision for themselves. This activity encouraged self-reflection, confidence, and the belief that their dreams are achievable with purpose and perseverance.

‍

IMARA girls

Every girl who participates in an IMARA program brings unique talents, dreams, and potential. We are honored to walk alongside them as they build confidence, discover their strengths, and develop the skills to become tomorrow's leaders. Their courage, creativity, and determination inspire everything we do.

Giveaways

Each participant received IMARA giveaways as a reminder that they is part of a community that believes in her potential and is cheering her on every step of the way.

IMARA Parents

Parents are essential partners in our mission. Their trust, encouragement, and support help create opportunities for girls to grow in confidence, leadership, and purpose.

‍ IMARA Team

Our dedicated volunteers and facilitators created a welcoming, supportive environment where every girl felt encouraged to learn, grow, and lead with confidence.

Graduation Celebration

Each participant was recognized with an IMARA Certificate of Completion, celebrating her commitment to personal growth, leadership, and confidence. The ceremony marked not the end of the journey, but the beginning of a future filled with possibility.

Back-to-School

Braids & Confidence

1 & 2 August 2026

On August 1 and 2, 2026, The IMARA Project hosted its Back-to-School Braids & Confidence event, bringing together volunteers, community partners, and supporters to help girls begin the school year feeling confident, prepared, and celebrated.

At The IMARA Project, we believe confidence begins long before a girl walks into the classroom. Sometimes, it starts with knowing she belongs, feeling cared for, and walking into the first day of school with her head held high.

Our Back-to-School Braids & Confidence event was created with that purpose in mind.

Thanks to the generosity of our volunteers, community partners, and supporters, girls received beautiful protective hairstyles, school supplies, and encouragement as they prepared for the new school year. More than a day of braiding, the event was an opportunity to remind every participant that she is valued, capable, and deserving of every opportunity to succeed.

Throughout the day, our volunteers created a welcoming environment where girls and families could connect, laugh, and begin the school year with renewed confidence.

We are especially grateful to Absolutely Lavish Beauty Lounge and the talented braider, Shauna Dortch, who donated her time and expertise to make this event possible. Her kindness and commitment helped ensure each girl left feeling confident, celebrated, and ready for the year ahead.

To everyone who volunteered, donated, partnered with us, or helped spread the word, thank you. Because of your support, girls in our community are beginning the school year knowing they have an entire community cheering them on.

Together, we are helping girls navigate with confidence.

founding 50: a night of gratitude and celebration

17 October 2026

On October 17, 2026, The IMARA Project gathered at Cabot's Pueblo Museum in Desert Hot Springs for our Founding 50 Donor Appreciation Reception.

It was a beautiful evening filled with gratitude, friendship, and celebration as we recognized the people who believed in our mission and helped make our work possible.

From our generous donors and dedicated team to our volunteers, community partners, and special guests, every person in the room represented an important part of IMARA's story.

We are excited to share some of our favorite moments from this special evening and thank everyone who continues to support our mission of helping girls navigate with confidence.

Navigate. Grow. Thrive.

What Imara parents Are Saying


β€œThank you, Imara, for making my daughter feel so special. After getting her hair braided, she had the biggest smile from ear to ear. She felt beautiful, confident, uplifted, and excited to start the new school year.

From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed at the door by a wonderful group of strong, caring women. Everyone greeted us with a smile and made my daughter and me feel comfortable and appreciated. The hospitality was amazing, and we truly felt right at home.

Thank you to all the beautiful ladies at Imara for your kindness, generosity, and dedication. You made my daughter feel welcome, confident, and ready to return to school. You all have beautiful hearts, and I truly appreciate everything you do for children and families in the community.”

A grateful parent πŸ’œ


β€œJayla'Marie's favorite part of the IMARA Project was interacting with the other young ladies and experiencing the kindness, encouragement, and genuine attentiveness of the mentors.

She shared that she learned the importance of giving back and serving her community. She was inspired to learn about how nonprofit organizations make a difference and hopes to one day start her own nonprofit so she can help support and uplift her community.

The experience was wonderful. If I could suggest anything, it would simply be to offer even more workshops and mentorship opportunities throughout the year, as I know many young ladies would greatly benefit from them.”

β€œMy daughter enjoyed the socialization. She is a homeschooled girl and meeting other girls was so exciting for her. Phoenix is in martial arts, so she has that where mostly boys she has to spar so her being able to be soft and in an encouraging environment was great for her. She loved all the stickers she was sent home with. The vision board hangs on her door. She had a blast. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and apply.

Current Service Area

The IMARA Project currently serves communities throughout California's High Desert, with a primary focus on Desert Hot Springs, Twentynine Palms, and Victorville.

We are also open to exploring opportunities in other High Desert communities where there is demonstrated interest, community support, and alignment with our mission.

At this time, IMARA's programs are focused on serving communities within the California High Desert region.

Are you a school, youth organization, community group, or business interested in supporting girls in your community? The IMARA Project welcomes opportunities to collaborate with organizations that share our commitment to helping girls navigate, grow, and thrive.

Let's explore what we can do together.

We believe meaningful change happens through strong partnerships and programs that are responsive to the needs of the community. Whether you are interested in hosting a workshop, bringing mentorship opportunities to your organization, collaborating on a community event, or exploring a long-term partnership, we would love to connect.

We May Be Able to Support:

  • Mentorship and empowerment programs for girls

  • Leadership and confidence-building workshops

  • Community events and youth engagement activities

  • Guest speaking and educational sessions

  • Collaborative nonprofit and community partnerships

  • School and community center programming

  • Volunteer and mentor engagement opportunities

Request Services or Partnership Information

If you are interested in working with The IMARA Project, please complete the form below. Sharing a few details about your organization and needs will help us better understand how we may be able to support your community.

Bring imara to your community!

mentor girls. change lives.

Interested in Volunteering?

The IMARA Project is built on the belief that every girl deserves encouragement, positive role models, and opportunities to grow in confidence and leadership. We are seeking compassionate and dependable volunteers who want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of middle and high school girls.

Whether you are a working professional, retiree, college student, military spouse, educator, or community member, there are opportunities to get involved in ways that fit your schedule and strengths.

Volunteer Opportunities

Mentor

Mentors serve as positive role models and trusted sources of encouragement for girls participating in IMARA programs. The goal is not to provide counseling or have all the answers. Rather, mentors help girls build confidence, develop leadership skills, explore possibilities for their future, and navigate challenges with support and encouragement.

Mentors may:

  • Participate in IMARA workshops, activities, and special events

  • Share personal experiences, lessons learned, and career insights

  • Support leadership and life-skills activities

  • Participate in a brief monthly virtual check-in with participants and program staff

Time Commitment

We understand that volunteers have busy lives. Our mentor program is designed to be meaningful while remaining manageable.

Mentors are asked to commit to:

  • Approximately 4 - 6 hours per month

  • Participation in IMARA activities and events as schedules allow

  • Initial volunteer orientation and training

Other Ways to Volunteer

Event Support

Help with workshops, community events, leadership activities, and special programs.

Typical activities include:

  • Event setup and breakdown

  • Registration and check-in

  • Activity support

Estimated commitment: Flexible. Most events range from 2-5 hours per month.

Community Outreach and Administrative Support

Support IMARA behind the scenes by assisting with:

  • Fundraising and special events

  • Community partnerships

  • Resource development

  • Administrative projects

  • Marketing and communications

Estimated commitment: Flexible, typically 2-5 hours per month.

What to Expect

  1. Submit a volunteer interest form.

  2. Participate in a brief conversation with an IMARA team member.

  3. Complete any required background or reference checks.

  4. Complete a volunteer orientation and training.

  5. Begin supporting girls and families through IMARA programs.

Every volunteer helps create a community where girls can develop confidence, leadership skills, resilience, and a strong sense of belonging.

Interested in Volunteering?

Please complete the form below and tell us a little about yourself, your interests, and how you would like to get involved. A member of The IMARA Project team will follow up with additional information as opportunities become available.

Make an Impact Today

πŸ‘‘ Pass the Crown

Celebrating the Women Who Helped Shape Us

We all have a woman who made a difference in our lives. Maybe it was your mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, mentor, or a friend who encouraged you, believed in you, or helped you become who you are today.

Now it's your turn to honor her.

The IMARA Project's Pass the Crown campaign invites you to celebrate an extraordinary woman in your life by making a donation in her honor. Your gift not only recognizes the difference she made in your life, but also helps create opportunities for girls to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and navigate their futures.

πŸ‘‘ How to Pass the CrownπŸ‘‘

1. Crown Her

Think of a woman who has made a lasting impact on your life. Make a donation to The IMARA Project in her honor. Every amount makes a difference!

2. Share Her Story

Post a photo or share a few words on social media about the woman you're honoring. Tell others why she deserves the crown.

3. Tag Her

Tag the woman you're celebrating and The IMARA Project so we can recognize her with you.

4. Pass It On

Challenge three friends to honor women who have made a difference in their lives by making a donation and passing the crown forward.

Want to Support IMARA Without Participating in the Challenge?

You absolutely can!

You don't have to nominate anyone or share a story to make a difference.

Simply click the donation link below to make a contribution of any amount. Every gift helps The IMARA Project provide opportunities for girls to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and navigate their futures.

Your support helps us provide:

β€’ mentorship and leadership activities

β€’ educational resources and workshops

β€’ community programs and outreach

β€’ supplies and learning materials

β€’ safe, supportive spaces for growth and connection

Ways to Support The IMARA Project

πŸ‘‘ Pass the Crown

Honor a woman who has made a difference in your life by making a donation in her name. Celebrate her impact while helping the next generation of girls navigate their own journeys with confidence.

πŸ’œ Make a Donation

Want to give without participating in the Pass the Crown challenge? We welcome your support! Make a one-time or recurring donation of any amount. Every contribution helps us continue our work.

πŸ’œ Share Our Mission

Help us reach more families, supporters, and communities by sharing The IMARA Project with your friends, family, and social networks.

πŸ’œ Get Involved

There are many ways to make a difference beyond donating. Whether you volunteer, become a community partner, or help connect us with new opportunities, your involvement matters.

Together, We Can Make a Lasting Difference

Every gift, every connection, and every act of support helps us build something meaningful for the girls we serve.

Thank you for believing in The IMARA Project and helping us create opportunities for girls to navigate life with confidence.

Navigate. Grow. Thrive.

The IMARA Project is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

Our Partners