Girls on the Run – New Balance 5K

This past Saturday morning I volunteered for the Girls on the Run 5K held at Asphalt Green in New York City.  Girls from the ages of 8 to 13 participate in this program and train for twelve weeks to run a 5K (3.1 miles).  What makes this program unique is that in addition to training for the race, each session is combined with a “topic of the day” where they actively participate in discussions which can range from body image issues and bullying, to what having a positive attitude means.  The lesson plan that this curriculum follows highlights three main principles of individual values, team building and community, and has been featured by various media outlets including CNN, Glamour, O, Redbook and Runners World Magazines.  The grand finale each season is the 5K race.  There is no time limit, as the race does not end until everyone crosses the finish line. 

A special thank you to Holly Carmichael and the staff at Girls on the Run Manhattan for their yearlong dedication in ensuring a wonderful event and experience for these girls.  I had a great time helping to decorate their hair prior to the start of the race with an endless supply of various hair accessories and colored hair spray donated by Goody. 

For more information, or to make a donation, go to www.gotrm.org

Locations are throughout the US, with applications currently being accepted for spring 2011 volunteer coaching positions.