Central Louisiana Gets Girls on the Run Program

Girls on the Run program kicks off in February

Girls on the Run and the YWCA of Alexandria-Pineville are partnering to kick off the first-ever Girls on the Run season in Rapides Parish on February 18, 2013, made possible by the generous donation of Run Wild Multisports.

Girls on the Run is a nonprofit after school program for third through eighth grade girls, based on curriculum developed by Girls on the Run International. Over the course of a 10-week season, volunteer coaches teach life skills such as handling bullies, dealing with body image and the media, making healthy decisions and contributing to the community. This character-building program focuses on bolstering self-esteem, confidence and improving physical and emotional health.

During the course of the program, the participants train together to complete a 5k (3.1 mile) run – the culminating event of Girls on the Run. This inaugural Girls on the Run 5k is open to anyone who is willing to run, walk or skip to the finish line. It is a non-competitive, celebration 5k; times are not recorded and race results will not be posted. All finishers will receive a medal, lots of cheers and the admiration of all spectators.

We are currently looking for volunteers to assist with this program. At the heart of Girls on the Run are amazing volunteers whose commitment and passion change the lives of thousands of girls each year. If you are interested in volunteering, two informational sessions are being offered on Thursday, December 6 at noon and 5:30 p.m. at the YWCA, located behind ASH. All volunteers must be over 18 and can be male or female. If you have a passion for exercise and/or empowering girls to be their best...we want you!

For more information about Girls on the Run you can visit www.girlsontherun.org or contact the YWCA at 442.3397.