Girls on the Run of NOVA
At a time when persistent sadness is on the rise - especially among young girls - Girls on the Run of NOVA is dedicated to delivering joyful and empowering programming to our region’s 3rd-8th graders, regardless of their ability, background, or financial resources. We reach 4,000 kids annually with fun, interactive lessons that teach skills like empathy and positive self-talk while incorporating joyful movement and running games. No two GOTR participants are exactly alike, and while mental health challenges affect us all, some face more barriers to accessing structured support than others. When you support GOTR NOVA, you help us bring our lessons to those kids facing the most barriers to getting the support they need. Thank you for building a region where all girls can know and activate their limitless potential!
What is the most important thing you learned about yourself at Girls on the Run? Our participants answered:
“I can do anything.”
“People can help me get through strong emotions.”
“That I can be proud of myself.”
“I can overcome a challenge.”
“How to cope with my stress and share my opinion.”
“To trust myself more.”
Caregivers of the participants supported these statements as well, sharing:
“My daughter was very shy at the beginning of the practices but now she’s empowered, optimistic, active, loves to share and help everyone and I love to see her bloom every day!! Thank you for such a wonderful experience.”
“I was very pleased with the lessons that girls had during the season. The girls learned to encourage each other. Helped to build each other up instead of down which is so important."
Financials
Programs
Elementary School Program
Designed for 3rd-5th graders. Each age-specific program creates a positive, structured space for participants to learn about themselves, explore new ideas, cultivate empathy, strengthen connections and develop life skills that will help them as they move through adolescence and beyond. Elementary school themes include positive self-talk, identifying and communicating emotions, being a good friend, having confidence in yourself, and much more.
Middle School Program
Designed for 6th-8th graders. Each age-specific program creates a positive, structured space for participants to learn about themselves, explore new ideas, cultivate empathy, strengthen connections and develop life skills that will help them as they move through adolescence and beyond. Middle school themes covered include team building, boundary setting, asking for help, navigating peer pressure, taking care of your whole self, and much more.
Volunteering + Events
5K Celebrations
Our next 5K celebrations will be on November 23rd and 24! Come experience the joy firsthand as thousands of participants and their family members cross the finish line - many for the first time ever.
Become a GOTR NOVA Coach!
You don't have to be a runner to be a Girls on the Run coach! You just have to have a desire to invest in the future of our local youth as a mentor. Commitments are approximately 4 hours per week for a 10-week season.