Young Girls Gain Friends, Boost Self-Esteem at "Girls on the Run"

Last Tuesday, Leslie Littlejohn, shown at right with Rotarian of the Day Gary Jones, introduced us to to "Girls on the Run!" – a life-changing, non-profit program for girls in the 3rd through 8th grade. Their mission is to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running.

The 24-lesson Girls on the Run curriculum combines training for a 5K (3.1 miles) running event with lessons that inspire girls to become independent thinkers, enhance their problem solving skills and make healthy decisions. All of this is accomplished through an active collaboration with girls and their parents, schools, volunteers, staff, and the community. Leslie gave information supporting the importance of physical activity coupled with bonding and goal setting in improving the overall well being of participating girls. GOTR is for 3rd through 5th grade and  Heart and Sole is for the 6th thru 8th grade girls.

GOTR Oklahoma County is an Independent Council of Girls on the Run International, which has a network of 200+ locations across the United States and Canada. The Mitch Park YMCA hosts GOTR as well as the Northside OKC YMCA.  The program is fee based at $150 but income weighted to accommodate all children.  Scholarships are available so that no girl is left out.

Girls on the Run® is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to creating a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams.  Leslie can be contacted at leslie.littlejohn@girlsontherun.org  The website is www.girlsontherunokco.org