Girls on the Run is a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization offering physical activity-based positive youth development programs designed to enhance girls’ social, emotional, and physical skills. The organization operates through 175+ local councils across the United States and Canada, serving over 200,000 girls annually. Programs combine research-based life skills curriculum with physical activity, featuring trained coaches who emphasize developing competence, confidence, conneGirls on the Run is a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization offering physical activity-based positive youth development programs designed to enhance girls’ social, emotional, and physical skills. The organization operates through 175+ local councils across the United States and Canada, serving over 200,000 girls annually. Programs combine research-based life skills curriculum with physical activity, featuring trained coaches who emphasize developing competence, confidence, connection, character, caring, and contribution in young girls through lessons incorporating running and other physical activities.
The organization offers multiple program formats to meet different needs: traditional seasonal programs for 3rd-5th grade and 6th-8th grade students, intensive summer camp experiences (Camp GOTR), and a digital adidas Summer Series for remote participation. All programs culminate in end-of-season 5K celebration events, with over 320 events hosted nationally throughout the year. Each program includes lessons led by trained coaches, official Girls on the Run merchandise, program materials, and registration for the end-of-season 5K with finisher’s medals.
A key commitment to inclusion distinguishes Girls on the Run: coaches receive specialized training to serve girls with physical, sensory, and intellectual disabilities, with specific lesson adaptations provided through comprehensive inclusion guides. The organization encourages girls to bring trusted adults for guidance, creating a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
Key Highlights
Serves 200,000+ girls annually across 175+ local councils in US and Canada
Highly rated program with 4.8/5 star rating
100% of parents reported their daughter would participate again; 91% of girls felt they were important part of their team
Combines life skills development with physical activity and running training
Culminates in celebratory 5K events with finisher medals
Specifically designed to be inclusive for girls with disabilities with trained coaches and adapted curriculum
Special Features
Inclusive program designed for girls with disabilities
Coaches trained in serving girls with physical, sensory, and intellectual disabilities
Comprehensive inclusion guides with lesson adaptations
Research-based curriculum
Trained professional coaches
National network of 175+ local councils
Over 320 end-of-season 5K celebration events
Digital summer program option (adidas Summer Series)
Financial assistance available
Parent-girl bonding activities included
Screen-free activity options
Community service component
Activities
5K event participation5K preparation and trainingRunningPhysical activityPhysical activity guide exercisesLife skills developmentTeam building exercisesTeam buildingBuilding friendshipsManaging emotionsResolving conflictMaking intentional decisionsExploring creativityLessons incorporating running and physical activitiesFun gamesOutdoor bingo activitiesScavenger huntsColoring sheets and craftsDream board creationGratitude checklist activitiesParent-girl bonding activitiesCommunity serviceHelping othersScreen-free activitiesEnd-of-season 5K celebration eventadidas Summer Series digital activities
Varies by local council; financial assistance available. Registration includes coach-led lessons, official Girls on the Run T-shirt, program materials, 5K registration, and finisher’s medal
Location:
PO Box 30667 PMB 65493 |, Charlotte, NC 28230
Schedule:
Varies by local council; end-of-season 5K events occur throughout the year across 320+ events nationally. Programs run seasonally with specific dates determined by individual local councils