This spring, join hundreds of girls as they celebrate their running progress with Girls on the Run’s 5K on June 4 (check website for location). Through a 10-week program, these third- through eighth-grade girls gain useful life lessons and hone their running skills. Their training leads up to this 5K event, which they tackle with help from their personal running buddies.
“We work to really empower girls to be joyful, healthful and confident…We envision a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and can boldly pursue her dreams,” says Twin Cities Girls on the Run executive director Mary Uran.
Almost six years ago, Uran and others helped bring Girls on the Run to the Twin Cities area. For the first season in 2012, there were just 24 girls and six coaches at two sites. Now, the program has grown almost exponentially, says Uran, with the additions of more volunteers, locations and expanded age groups.
Over the 10-week sessions, the girls set physical goals and learn to navigate adolescence through discussion, games and activities, all with a focus on running. “I think girls even younger and younger face challenges…and we see that girls from a younger age don’t participate in physical activities and stress reduction,” Uran says.
For Uran, the best part is seeing the girls making an impact in their community and with each other. Volunteer session coaches and running buddies are always welcome.
Girls on the Run Twin Cities will also be holding a fundraiser luncheon on May 3. For more info and to register for the spring 5K, visit gotrtwincities.org. 5K registration $30–$35. Girls on the Run Twin Cities, 393 North Dunlap St., Suite 750, St. Paul; 612.656.9032.
