Readers of my blog will know that I’m a big fan of Girls on the Run (GOTR). This terrific organization hosts running programs for girls 8 to 13 to encourage healthy lifestyles and foster self-esteem. Programs are offered at local schools, YMCAs and Girls Inc. sites. At the end of the program, girls “graduate” by running the New Balance GOTR 5K race.
On Sunday, GOTR Atlanta hosted its annual fall 5K for these young runners. As a volunteer, I felt lucky to join the celebration as the girls completed their first race. And I had the best job – tracking runners’ race times as they crossed the finish line. The girls’ energy and joy was amazing to witness. They broke out in cheers and chants, creating an incredible atmosphere. One GOTR coach shared her experience at the group’s blog, Why We Run. For me, the best part was to see the expression of pride and accomplish on the girls’ faces as they crossed the finish line. As an added bonus, I got to deliver a $1,500 sponsorship check from The UPS Foundation to GOTR Atlanta.
If you’d like to support GOTR, consider joining its fundraising program SoleMates. You can participate in any event to raise money for GOTR programs.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
3 comments:
Thanks for volunteering at the GOTR 5K! I hear it was a perfect day for a race, so sorry I had to miss it!
Hey Debbie! It is so wonderful to hear you were able to be part of GOTR! I had know idea you were such a big fan. Goody is a national sponsor and I have been a coach for a couple of years now and just LOVE it. This is such a wonderful blog post :)
~Lori Ann, Goody eMarketing Manager
Thanks Debbie! We could not host this wonderful celebration without all (over 100)the Amazing Volunteers who came out on Race Day and our generous partners at Atlanta Youth Soccer Association!
I asked the girls on my team what their favorite part of the race day was and one girl said, "I loved rounding the final corner of the race and seeing a huge crowd all cheering for ME!" and it really did feel like everyone was out their supporting each and every girl! Thanks for making them all SuperStars!
Post a Comment