In preparation for our move to San Diego earlier this year, we talked about a lot of things this change would include. One of them would be each of us finding a cause or organization to really get involved with and volunteer our time and talents. Almost 5.5 months since we moved, and I’ve found a volunteer home with Girls on the Run.
GOTR is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams. Meeting twice a week in small teams of 8-20 girls, GOTR teaches life skills through dynamic, interactive lessons and running games. Running is used to inspire and motivate girls, encourage lifelong health and fitness, and build confidence through accomplishment. Important social, psychological, and physical skills and abilities are developed and reinforced throughout the program.
At each season’s conclusion, the girls and their running buddies complete a 5K running event which gives them a tangible sense of achievement as well as a framework for setting and achieving life goals. While I still can’t make the coaching schedule work (hopefully one day!), I am excited to be part of this season’s 5K planning committee where I will be in charge of start line corrals, as well handing out medals and congratulating finishers.
I’ve volunteered for various organizations over the years (Junior League, United Way, summer library programs, and more), but I’m pretty sure that getting involved with GOTR will be my most rewarding volunteer experience yet. San Diego County has 37 chapters this season, with almost 500 girls registered. I get to help 500 young girls realize the achievement of completing a goal … hopefully, one of MANY healthy and positive ones they will set for themselves going forward.
This season’s 5K will be Sunday, December 8 at Embarcadero Marina Park South in San Diego, and it’s not just for GOTR participants; anyone can run the 5K. If you’re in the San Diego area and want to be part of a fantastic, feel-good event please register to run and join us!
G has a few ideas of ways he wants to get involved, and is currently researching the best volunteer fit for him!
On an unrelated note, we’re flying to Boston for a long weekend of fun with G’s parents. Stay tuned for a vacation recap post!
Have an amazing weekend,
GnC
activeharmony 
I’ve volunteered with Girls on the Run in Cincinnati for a few years and it is such a great organization. The 5k is so much fun!
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Thanks for reaffirming what a great organization GOTR is! I was fortunate to be able to deliver shoes to the girls at an elementary school last week, and it was so rewarding to see how excited they were; looking forward to the 5K on Dec. 8!
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