About
Girls on the Run is a life-changing, experiential learning programs for girls age eight to thirteen years old. The programs combine training for a 3.1 mile running event with self-esteem enhancing, uplifting workouts. The goals of the programs are to encourage positive emotional, social, mental, spiritual and physical development.
Objective
The objective of Girls on the Run is to educate and empower girls at an early age in order to prevent the display of at-risk activities in the future. At risk activities include substance/alcohol use, eating disorders, early onset of sexual activity, sedentary lifestyle, depression, suicide attempts and confrontations with the juvenile justice system.
Approach
Girls on the Run delivers our message to young girls through volunteer coaches and mentors. Our 12-week character building program of experiential learning through running teaches very specific and well-defined social and personal skills. The program culminates in a non-competitive 5K run event which gives the girls a chance to shine and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment.
Curriculum
The curriculum encompasses the following 3 concepts:
- Weeks 1-4: All About Me…Getting to Know Who I am and What I Stand For!
- Weeks 5-8: Building My Team…Understanding the Importance of Cooperation
- Weeks 9-12: Community Begins with Me…Learning About Community and Designing Our Own Community Project
Expectations
Girls on the Run promotes physical, emotional, social and intellectual development in 3rd through 8th grade girls. The girls complete the 12-week program with a stronger sense of identity, greater self-confidence, a healthier body image and a better knowledge of what it means to be a member of a team and a community.
