What an Inspiration! Girls on the Run Participants “Graduate” at 5K Race

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 a UPS employee, I had the added bonus of delivering 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.

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