Discover how Girls on the Run physical activity-based youth development afterschool programs made a difference in the lives of girls in 2024.
In 2024, we saw GOTR girls soar. And in 2025, they’ll continue to thrive.
As we make our way into 2025, we are taking a moment to celebrate the remarkable memories and milestones from last year while continuing to set bold goals for the future. With a mission to empower young girls, our afterschool programs for girls have left an incredible impact on communities across North America since 1996. And in 2024, we affirmed this ongoing commitment to meeting the unique needs of today’s girls in various new, noteworthy, and exciting ways. Keep reading to learn more about a very special year and what’s next!
A team of girls and coaches from GOTR Greater Charlotte embracing the joy of the big day at their fall 5K Celebration.
Recognizing A Year of Empowerment
With the help of 39,287 volunteer coaches, the program inspired 173,546 girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident. Each GOTR team developed and executed a Community Impact Project, completing 11,629 projects that made a tangible difference in their neighborhoods.
Every season, one of the program’s most memorable milestones is the 5K Celebration, a culmination of months of building endurance as well as skill development, teamwork, and personal growth. In 2024, team members from coast to coast achieved their goal of crossing the finish line at one of this year’s 322 Girls on the Run 5K Celebrations. Additionally, 2024 was a year in which our council network expanded, growing to serve girls in California’s Central Coast, El Paso, Texas, and Miami, Florida!
A group of GOTR participants from GOTR Puget Sound proudly holding up their medals after completing the 5K
Reflecting on the program’s transformative impact, Jocelyn Diaz, a teacher and Girls on the Run volunteer coach from Houston, Texas, said, “It is a life-changing experience to help the girls find themselves. To witness their confidence and how they connect with their teammates—it’s incredible.”
Survey Confirms the Impact of the Afterschool Program
Following each season, Girls on the Run releases a survey seeking feedback from caregivers, participants, and coaches. In the spring 2024 survey, results showed that our program’s impact continues to make a substantial difference in girls’ lives and prepare them for the next steps of their journeys. A few key takeaways from the recent survey include:
- 98% of participants felt included in all Girls on the Run activities.
- 98% of participants said their Girls on the Run teammates support them.
- 99% of participants said their Girls on the Run coaches care about them.
- 95% of participants said they are more confident because of Girls on the Run.
- 94% of participants shared that they use the skills they learned in practice in their daily lives.
This team was full of smiles after completing their Community Impact Project.
Marris Moore, a program alum from central Florida, echoed the sentiment of these results, saying, “Girls on the Run gave me a safe space to express myself, build confidence, and develop resilience. The support and camaraderie I found with my coaches and teammates were invaluable.”
New Curricula for the Next Generation
Recognizing that the needs of today’s girls have evolved, GOTRI introduced two new curricula tailored for 3rd- to 5th-grade girls:
- Hello, Superstar! empowers girls to shine their Star Power, build confidence to be themselves, and encourage others to do the same.
Throughout the ‘Hello, Superstar!’ season, participants learn to embrace and celebrate what makes them who they are.
- Hello, Mountain Mover! encourages girls to develop the confidence to do hard things by strengthening their I Can! Power!
‘Hello, Mountain Mover!’ continues to provide girls with valuable tools to navigate the ups and downs of growing up.
Each curriculum includes lessons on topics important to 8- to 10-year-old girls, such as managing emotions, fostering friendships, and expressing empathy. Through engaging activities that incorporate movement, each lesson inspires meaningful conversations relevant to girls’ lives today—skills vital for girls navigating today’s world.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
This year of impact was made possible by the support of National Partners, Corporate Sponsors, local organizations, and countless individual donors. Their dedication ensures that our programming can reach more girls and inspire them to find joy in movement, set and achieve goals, and make a difference in their communities.
A GOTR girl excitedly crossing the 5K finish line next to two equally enthusiastic 5K Buddies at the GOTR Maricopa & Pinal Counties 5K Celebration.
As we move forward into 2025, we are determined to expand our reach throughout North America, recruit more coaches, reconnect with GOTR alumni, and build confidence in girls. Join us for another year of connection, compassion, and core experiences that create caring communities. We hope to see you at the starting line!
Learn more about registering your girl or becoming a coach, find a team near you!
