As you can see in the photos below, my connection to GOTR goes back to 2007 when I participated in their 3rd-5th grade programming. I’ve also been an active GOTR volunteer this past year with the Chicago chapter!

Girls on the Run is an organization that reaches girls at a critical stage, strengthening their confidence at a time when society begins to tell them what they can and can’t be. The GOTR programs address the whole girl when she needs it the most by emphasizing the connection between physical and emotional health. I was a part of the mentorship after school program where we trained with a volunteer mentor and a large group of other girls each week for various lessons and physical activity. It helped me learn self-confidence, individuality, and inner strength with our weekly sessions culminating in a 5k race.

The empowerment that GOTR helps young girls realize is precisely why I love distance running so much. Aside from the mind-clearing and stress-relieving benefits running provides, it's the feeling that I can accomplish something challenging when every thought in my head tells me to give up. If I have the mental strength to push my body to do something so physically demanding; I know I can get through anything. Girls on the Run taught me that when I was 9 (although I don't think I put all that together at age 9... I simply realized that I enjoyed running and achieving a goal ;) Self-confidence and self-motivation is something that I want all young girls to be able to experience - even if running isn't their chosen way to feel empowered in the future.

Please consider supporting my fundraising efforts for the 2024 Chicago Marathon! Less than 2% of U.S. charitable giving goes towards organizations that serve women and girls. No donation is too small.