Girls on the Run offers more than just exercise

Girls on the Run Southwest Florida held a 5K on April 27. JIM AUSTIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

As the world marches (or runs) on, one program is not just about lacing up sneakers. It’s a journey of self-discovery and resilience — and it’s a whole lot of fun.

With every passing mile, Girls on The Run continues to leave inspiration in its wake. As more and more girls across the nation lace up their shoes and hit the pavement, they aren’t just logging miles; they are forging bonds, building confidence and discovering their inner warrior. From conquering 5Ks to obstacles, these young, ambitious runners are proving that, with the right amount of support and determination, there is no finish line they can’t cross.

Formed in 1996, Girls on the Run ( www.gotrswfl.org ) is a national, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization intended to strengthen third- through eighth-grade girls’ social, emotional, behavioral and physical skills. In doing so, it aims to help its participants feel more equipped to balance the complexities that life may throw their way.

To date, the organization has helped more than 2.25 million participants, offering programming in over 12,000 locations across North America.

Fun workouts and team-building exercises teach the girls resolve and goal-setting, and culminate in a celebratory 5K run that reinforces their sense of accomplishment and empowerment. JIM AUSTIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

At the heart of the organization’s mission are six quintessential, research-based life skills geared towards helping girls better understand who they are, what it means to value relationships, and teamwork. These core values are confidence, character, care, connections, competence and contribution. The life-skills curriculum is headed by teams of coaches trained to teach the lessons as intended. Each chapter hosts practice twice weekly for 75 minutes, incorporating a balance of physical activity and life skills.

For elementary school-aged girls (ages 8-11), the program’s emphasis is on laying a foundation of confidence, resilience and fostering healthy habits. Activities are designed to be engaging and age-appropriate, incorporating games, group discussions and interactive lessons that teach the importance of developing life skills. The goal is to help girls build up their self-esteem, develop positive relationships and create a love for physical activity.

Through a combination of fun workouts and team-building exercises, girls learn the importance of resolve and goal setting, culminating in a celebratory 5K run that reinforces the sense of accomplishment and empowerment.

The middle school program (ages 11-14) dives deeper into topics that are relevant to their stages of development. Navigating adolescence comes with a unique set of challenges, and GOTR seeks to address the importance of these issues in a supportive environment. Discussions are wide-ranging but typically cover issues like body image, peer pressure, communication skills and understanding social dynamics.

The curriculum helps the girls to make a smoother transition to adolescence by supplying them with the tools to make healthy choices and maintain positive relationships. While physical activity sits at the epicenter of this program, the focus slightly shifts to accommodate the girls’ growing needs and evolving interests.

Even though both programs have the commonality of empowering girls and promoting optimal physical and emotional health, they are both tailored to adhere to the developmental needs of each age group. By addressing the needs at the various stages of childhood and adolescence, Girls on the Run seamlessly equips its members with the skills to reach their maximum potential.

The parent organization has provided a blueprint for success, paving the way for local chapters to flourish in communities across the United States. Through bustling city streets to more quiet, rural areas like Charlotte County, leaders have continually embraced the mission, bringing a transformative experience to girls everywhere.

Leading the pack for Girls on the Run Southwest Florida is Charlotte County’s own Kristen Manomat. Her role as executive director is one of unwavering commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Recognizing the importance of ensuring that all girls have the opportunity to participate, Manomat has worked to break down barriers and make Girls on the Run accessible to girls from all backgrounds.

From outreach initiatives to scholarship programs and partnerships with local organizations, Manomat has made it a personal mission to ensure that no girl is left behind, regardless of her family’s financial circumstances or other challenges she may face.

“We set the foundation for girls to be confident enough to make healthy choices for themselves in all settings of their lives,” Manomat said.

Under her leadership, Girls on the Run Southwest Florida — which includes Charlotte, Lee, DeSoto and Collier counties — serves as a catalyst for girls not only to embrace their strength on the track, but also to carry that confidence into their schools’ families and communities, creating a generation of leaders. Since 2013, the local chapter has made a difference in over 6,500 members’ lives.

Under Manomat’s tutelage, the Southwest Florida chapter continues to champion inclusivity and ease of access. Even those who might be hesitant or unfamiliar with the program find themselves welcomed with open arms and endless opportunities for growth and ascension.

“Every girl has a place on the team,” Manomat said, “regardless of physical ability level.”

For more information about Girls on the Run — upcoming events, how to join and ways to support the organization — see www.gotrswfl.org . ¦

The post Girls on the Run offers more than just exercise first appeared on Charlotte County Florida Weekly .