GIRLS ON THE RUN

By Dave Eckert

I recently learned of a great organization that I wanted to share with you. It’s called Girls on the Run, and it focuses on the mental and physical strength of third to eighth grade girls. I wanted to learn more, so I reached out to Gina Lichte, the group’s President and CEO. “Girls on the Run creates and offers after-school empowerment programs to help the girls recognize their inner strength, increase their level of physical activity, imagine their possibilities, and confidently stand up for themselves and others through the innovative integration of fun physical activities, life-skills lessons, and impactful community projects,” Lichte explained. Lichte went on to say that the curriculum is led by trained volunteer coaches who explore core topics relevant to eight to 13-year-old girls. “Understanding emotions, fostering friendships, expressing empathy, and curious communication. This helps create a sense of belonging for all participants while meeting the vital needs of girls today.”

Since its inception in 1996, Girls on the Run has served more than 2.25 million girls in all 50 states and Canada. Lichte says Girls on the Run promotes the resilience of adolescent girls by giving them the mentors and tools they need, including coping skills, positive self-image, and positive self-talk, which helps them navigate life’s increasingly difficult situations.” This is an eight-week program. Research shows that Girls on the Run promotes positive and lasting change in resiliency factors such as competence, confidence, and connection,” Lichte shared.

Lichte says she first became involved in 2016 when she was recruited to serve as CEO. At the time, she was working for a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing women into leadership spots within the sports industry. “We hosted weeklong events focused on identifying the skills women needed to lead, and what I consistently witnessed were incredibly talented professionals who already possessed those skills but often lacked the confidence to see themselves in leadership roles. Transitioning to a community-based youth development program that builds resiliency and confidence in young girls felt like a natural and meaningful next step. It allowed me to help shape change from a foundational age. As these young women grow, they carry with them the lessons learned through Girls on the Run, knowing how to tap into their limitless potential and truly believe that they are unstoppable,” Lichte said.

On a personal level, Lichte told me that it’s the sense of serving her community that comes into play all of the time. “Kansas City is an incredible home to compassionate individuals who care deeply about the future of their city. I’m especially inspired by the cross-sector collaborations that focus on developing our young people. Witnessing the community rally around our mission is both personally fulfilling and professionally energizing,” Lichte shared. The impact Girls on the Run makes is powered by dedicated volunteers who are passionate about our mission and vision.”

I asked Lichte how folks could get involved. She was not at a loss for words or direction. “One of the most meaningful ways to get involved is by becoming a coach. Coaches are truly the heart of our program. Each season, two or more volunteer coaches lead a team through our proven curriculum, inspiring and guiding girls to recognize their strength and potential. If you’re ready to make a direct and lasting impact, coaching is for you. Prefer a one-day opportunity? Join us at a Girls on the Run 5K event!” Lichte exclaimed. “From cheer squads and water stations to handing out medals at the finish line, there are countless ways to help bring this joyful end-of-season celebration to life. You can also support a team for a season, either by volunteering or through financial sponsorship. However, you choose to get involved, your contribution helps empower girls to become confident, resilient, and unstoppable.”

To learn more and potentially sign up, visit Girls on the run on-line at gotrkc.org. As the son of a single mom and the father of an amazing daughter, I’m all for this, and I, personally, can’t wait to attend one of Girls on the Run’s 5Ks!