Girls on the Run empowers girls in third through eighth grades to make healthy decisions, build positive relationships and cope with difficult feelings and situations. The 10-week program emphasizes competence, confidence, connection, character, caring and contribution in young girls through lessons that incorporate physical activity and goal setting.
“For more than 13 years, Girls on the Run has worked hard to address the developmental needs of girls throughout Northeast Ohio,” said Robyn Cutler, executive director. “But never before has that need been greater than it is now amid COVID-19. Although it may be some time before we fully comprehend the lasting impact of the pandemic, it’s imperative we do all we can under the current circumstances to ensure our girls are able to continue making connections in safe spaces while building their confidence, learning critical life lessons and unleashing their limitless potential.”
The curriculum for the fall 2020 season is being adapted to accommodate a variety of needs in light of COVID-19, including considerations for the health and safety of coaches and participants and the potential for scheduling changes at schools and community centers.
There are two programs available, one for girls in grades third through fifth and another for girls in grades sixth through eighth, both of which can be brought to any community in the organization’s six Northeast Ohio counties by completing an online application. Girls on the Run NEO provides volunteer training, program materials and necessary resources to seamlessly deliver a quality, confidence-building experience.
“We are eager to meet the needs of girls during this unpredictable time,” adds Cutler, “We’re working to ensure that local and national guidelines are met to best serve the community, including adaptations to account for social distancing, limited group sizes and the opportunity for virtual lessons should a school need to close for a period of time.”
For more information about bringing Girls on the Run to your community or to sign up as a volunteer coach, visit gotrNEO.org or call 234-206-0786.
