Why Girls on the Run Says It’s “Not Really About Running”

“It’s really not about running—we use running as a tool to teach life lessons.”

By-Hank Stolz

Photo-gotr-worc.org

Worcester, MA- On this episode of Voice of Business, Karen Spencer of Girls on the Run Worcester County shared how the organization is helping young girls build confidence and life skills through a program that goes far beyond running. Spencer said the mission is rooted in personal development, using physical activity as a tool to empower participants at a critical age.

The primary purpose of Girls on the Run is not athletic training but building confidence and life skills in young girls. Spencer explained the core philosophy of the program, “Actually, running is in the name of our program, but it’s really not about running. We use running as a tool to facilitate the lessons that we’re hoping to teach the girls.” The national program was specifically designed to begin in third grade to counteract a statistical drop in girls’ confidence that occurs around age nine.

The Worcester County chapter has experienced rapid growth, expanding from 69 participants in 2015 to 1,400 and more are anticipated this year.

Spencer notes they are always looking for new coaches and mentors, “A lot of coaches come to us… and they’re like, ‘But I’m not a runner.’ And it’s like, that’s okay. You can walk. It’s really just about facilitating the curriculum that we teach.”

Want to help or donate? Come to the Sneaker Soiree, Thursday April 9th, from 6:30 to 9:30 PM at the White Room, 138 Green Street.

gotr-worc.org/

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