CAMBRIA COUNTY, Pa. -- There is an excited group of girls in Richland Township who all have one thing in common: they are full of spirit. In the group you won't find cliques, ostracizing or teasing. Instead, the Spirit girls of Richland Township focus on kindness and respect.

"It's important because when you get older you need to use these manners," said 9-year-old Nadia Kahn.

"We try to model a lot of character building with the girls," said Spirit Director Becky Sabo-Shriver. "We talk about being a good person, being kind and being a good citizen."

Sabo-Shriver helped found Spirit, which stands for Sisters Proving Importance by Reaching Inside Together. The goal is to help the girls, ages 7 to 13, find their inner beauty in a world that often pushes it aside.

"We noticed as teachers that we were seeing the same things," said Sabo-Shriver. "They were trying so hard to fit in and be the best at everything."

"The kids are taught that what's inside you is most important," said parent Kim Pasko. "It's not what your looks are or how your hair is done. It's more about what is within."

The group plays games together and focuses on words and actions that promote the idea of making friends. While the challenges of childhood may never fully be solved, parents and organizers said the program is working.

"They would walk with their heads down before," said Sabo-Shriver. "Now they are starting to make eye contact with us and saying hi. We are starting to see subtle changes with the girls."

The program, which is in its first year, started in January with 50 girls. It's now grown to 90 girls. If more join the club, the Spirit girls will welcome them with smiles and open arms.

"Friends are important to you," said Kahn. "They play with you. They care for you. They cheer you up."