Girls on the Run of Dane County has been in existence since October 2004.
Our Mission:
To educate and prepare 3rd – 5th grade girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living.
Our Vision:
To help girls and women in Dane County feel good about themselves and their roles in society, we will provide access to a GOTR program to every 3rd - 5th grade girl in her community by 2020.
About Girls on the Run of Dane County:
As a chapter of GOTR International, we utilize a psychology-based curriculum focused on the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual well-being of the girls, which means GOTR is a lot more than a running program. The weekly lessons, along with physical activity, help provide the tools girls need to avoid risky adolescent behaviors such as drug and alcohol use, early sexual activity, eating disorders and obesity. The 12 week after-school program combines training for a 5K race with healthy lifestyle education covering a range of issues such as listening to one's inner voice, gossip, bullying and positive body image. Through the discussion of the day's topic, girls are given the language and tools they need to better navigate adolescence and adulthood.
Each spring and fall season culminates in a community service project planned and driven by the girls, as well as participation in a 5K run. In our three years, we've watched over 200 girls cross the finish line, each with a huge smile on her face. Each girl leaves the program with a better understanding of herself, her ability to achieve a goal, her "team" and the community in which she lives.