About

What is GEMS?

GEMS is the go-to ministry for girls’ spiritual growth, providing real answers to the challenges girls face. We understand the adversity that girls face today and know you’re looking to guide the girls in your life successfully. You’re not alone! GEMS walks alongside moms, mentors, and ministry leaders to equip you to understand today’s problems. With GEMS resources you can provide a safe, welcoming environment to learn about God and remind your girl she’s seen, known, and loved. Through our club programs, one-on-one Bible studies, and girls’ activity kits, girls will find a place to belong and be loved. Through monthly Webinars, weekly Coffee Chats, podcasts, and annual training programs, moms, mentors, and ministry leaders will be equipped to understand and guide their girl through life’s challenges.

Our Staff

Our Board

Our History

1958

A meeting is held at Beverly Christian Reformed Church in Wyoming, Michigan, in response to the YCF (Young Calvinist Federation) board’s decision for a girl’s club movement and committee appointment. Calvinettes is suggested as the name.

1960

Barb Vredevoogd is appointed as the first part-time Director of Calvinettes. Barb wrote curriculum at her kitchen table for six girls in her church, which became the first lessons.

1970

The first magazine is released. The publication is named Touch which suggests contact; by touching we are aware of others. Suggests that girls, counselors, and the Global Office keep in touch by sharing ideas, plans, and suggestions. In July, the first Calvinette Counselors’ Convention is held in Niagara Falls, Ontario.

1972

Micah 6:8 is adopted as Calvinettes’ verse and aim and “Jesus Is All the World to Me” is adopted as the song.

1995

GEMS Girls’ Clubs chosen as the new name of the ministry. This was done in an effort to better convey our mission and vision – helping bring girls everywhere into a living, dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ.

2006

A team goes to Zambia, Africa, to build The House that GEMS Built for orphans. Training for Zambian women to be GEMS counselors also takes place. Four new clubs are started in Zambia, Africa.

2018

GEMS celebrates its 60th birthday. GEMS ReFresh launches as a new, online training program for counselors. GEMS is active in 17 countries, and Dr. Munyiva Kitavi, GEMS Regional Training Manager, is starting clubs throughout Kenya.

Partnerships

GEMS has developed strategic partnerships to help our leaders, parents, and friends reach this generation of girls. Learn more about our partners and how they can help you impact the lives of today’s girls for Christ.

FAQ

Check out our FAQ for more information about clubs, the ministry, and more.