Girls on the Run (GOTR) was founded in 1996 by lauded author and runner Molly Barker. The Dayton chapter covers Montgomery, Clark, Greene and Miami counties and was started in 2010. More than 9,000 girls have taken part in local programs. Spring and fall programs each year culminate with 5K runs at Wright State University. The next 5K is May 6 with festivities beginning at 8:30 a.m.
Executive Director Kayleigh Clark has been with Girls on the Run Dayton for six years. Kayleigh was introduced to GOTR when she volunteered as a running buddy in Florida. She had such a positive experience that she reached out to the Dayton chapter when she moved back home to the area.
Despite what some may assume, GOTR is about so much more than running. Kayleigh explains, “The biggest barrier for us to break is that we are not a running program. Girls, coaches and volunteers don’t have to love running or be good runners to participate.”
Each GOTR practice includes a lesson based on a social and emotional theme surrounded by positive self-talk with participants split into two age groups according to their grades in school (3-5 and 6-8). Training for the 5K is done in a safe space with healthy snacks provided. The practices and the season-ending 5K are not timed, yet accomplishment is celebrated.
“Your girl could walk the entire thing as long as she is moving forward. What we focus on is building strong girls both in confidence and emotionally, and we want them to feel secure and know that they have the tools to take on the world,” shares Kayleigh.
Throughout the program, girls learn the value of teamwork, empathy and motivation. They become physically active, gain confidence, feel a sense of achievement and learn about commitment to their community through a hands-on project. GOTR provides young girls with an environment away from social media that fosters the growth of the whole girl. A portion of Molly Barker’s vision was to break girls out of “the girl box.”
“It is super important to see young girls learning confidence and having something that they’re passionate about and can look forward to,” says Molly Eaton, a GOTR mom and vendor.
There are many ways to support GOTR. Volunteers are needed for the 5K on May 6 to help with inspiration stations. Women 18 or older can apply to be running buddies for girls who don’t have a family member or close friend to run with and anyone can register to run the 5K. Kayleigh notes, “We're always looking for dynamic people who want to volunteer their time whether it be at the 5K or to come on as a coach for the season.”
Donations can be directed to GOTRDayton.org/Donate.Your support, whether a one-time gift or a monthly donation, funds scholarships for girls in need. GOTR is also looking for local business and corporate sponsors.
Girls on the Run Dayton is making a tangible difference by encouraging the growth of healthy, active and confident young women with high self-worth. Registration for the fall season begins May 1. For more information visit GOTRDayton.org.
“What we focus on is building strong girls both in confidence and emotionally, and we want them to feel secure and know that they have the tools to take on the world.” - Kayleigh Clark, executive director, GOTR Dayton
“It is super important to see young girls learning confidence and having something that they’re passionate about and can look forward to.” - Molly Eaton, GOTR mom and vendor