People Powered Joy

For 11 days, people around the world followed the journey of Artemis II. 

We were captivated. Every news story, every photo, and every video on social media. We didn’t want to miss a moment. 

We watched as the seemingly impossible unfolded right before our eyes. We watched four people from different backgrounds, families, and lived experiences cram into a space capsule the size of a camper van. They laughed together. They learned together. They cried together. And they achieved together. 

For women and girls across the globe, we fan-girled over Christina Koch as she became the first woman to travel around the moon. Then we started hearing the stories of the women behind the scenes of the mission. Charlie Blackwell-Thompson made history as NASA's first-ever female launch director. Vanessa Wyche oversaw everything - from astronaut selection and training, to the iconic mission control room, to the Lander Ground Operations team, which includes Laura Poliah. Laura and her team ensured that the Orion spacecraft could survive the extreme journey to and from space. Erica Sandoval oversaw the Orion's Launch Abort System, ensuring the crew can be ejected to safety in the event of an emergency. 

And we can't forget the namesake - Artemis - the Goddess of the Moon. Her name isn't an accident — her name has been revived to mark humanity's next giant step, one driven by cutting-edge science, advanced technology, and the ingenuity of a team of women leading the way.

When we look back at this powerful, highly visible example of collaboration, courage, and growth, it's a simple parallel: SheJumps' mission accomplishes this on planet earth, of course, every chance it gets. 

As our participants learn a new skill, they high-five a friend. Or, if they're running low on energy, they might hear a word of encouragement or be handed a protein bar. While the magic behind Christina Koch's journey was her colleagues on the ground pushing the buttons and solving never-before-seen math equations, the catalysts driving experiences for SheJumpers in your community are our volunteers. 

When women and girls hit the trail, the slopes, the water, or try something new, they're surrounded by their fellow Girafficorns and our volunteers. They're the safety net to catch them if they need it and the ones cheering the loudest when they achieve their goal. 

"Being outdoors with other women gives me the freedom to be silly and have fun. I can try new things without feeling judged, and I feel more comfortable learning from other women in that environment. Women also pack way better snacks!" - Callie Beethe, AK Regional Coordinator

At a time when people are tired of digital connections and the churning newscycle, SheJumps is creating opportunities for authentic bonds and joyful outdoor experiences for women and girls. 

"Communities like SheJumps feel especially important right now because they offer a space where you can just be yourself and take a break from everything else going on in the world. It's a chance to set the hard stuff aside for a while, get outside, and connect with others in a positive, supportive environment. Being able to meet new friends, move your body, and spend time in nature can make a big difference in how connected you feel." -Callie Beethe, AK Regional Coordinator

With over 110 volunteers in 16 states, SheJumps hosted over 150 events, providing 1,800+ hours of outdoor programming to 2,753 women and girls last year. 

SheJumps is meeting this unique moment in communities nationwide – and in some places, it's also filling a gap for women and girls. 

"SheJumps has created a space in the Black Hills Region where there was a void. The region is rural, and there aren't many spaces created specifically for women to connect outdoors. SheJumps events create authentic, warm, and welcoming spaces, and through them, a community has been built, with many repeat attendees who look forward to taking part and friendships that have developed." -Andrea Fountain, Black Hills (S.D.) Event Coordinator.

At a time when we're looking at the world through a tiny screen, SheJumps is changing the view. 

“Communities like SheJumps offer space for hope through connection to nature, movement, and each other, which is vitally important in a time of doom scrolling and an overloaded news cycle. Being in nature together is restorative physically, emotionally, and socially.” -Andrea Fountain, Black Hills (S.D.) Event Coordinator.

So, while we're not pushing buttons in a fancy control room (yet), SheJumps and its volunteers are driving connections and experiences that build confidence, foster growth, develop leadership skills, and cultivate courage. 

And you never know, one of our Girafficorns may take the leap from the outdoors to space…anything is possible.

Join us: Power the Joy