Recently we introduced by blog a wonderful organization called Soles4Souls. This particular non-profit organization accepts footwear donations and distributes them to those in need. The program I'd like to spotlight today also caters to those in need, adolescent girls. The program is called Girls on the Run and was started by Molly Barker to encourage and support adolescent girls through some of their toughest years. Molly wants girls to know that they are strong because of who they are and can become, not because of how they look. A 12-week character building program, with a focus on running, teaches social and personal skills to help avoid stereotypes pressured on this particular age group.
This past month a non-competitive 5K race event gave the girls a chance to shine with an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The girls completed the program with a stronger sense of identity, a greater acceptance of themselves, a healthier body image and an understanding of what it means to be part of a team. New Balance is proud to be a part of that team as well. There is a network of Girls on the Run sites across the country for which New Balance is an active sponsor. NB provides scholarships for girls to participate in the project in addition to footwear certificates.
Some of these certificates were redeemed through our Saint Louis Clayton location. The staff was more than happy to get the participants in some good running shoes. The KJ768's, KJ811's, and WR768's took the girls straight to the finish line. Our Clayton staff received an outpouring of gratitude from the girls and their instructor. A couple staff members, Brenda and Brooke, were also present at the race to see the girls in running action. It was obvious to both how great of an impact this program has on so many girls, enabling their confidence and empowering them to strive for their best. The 5K event on May 10th had over 1100 registered runners and many more spectators came to show support.
To learn more about the program and how New Balance has become a great part of the mission go to girlsontherun.org. For the local Saint Louis chapter go to girlsontherunstlouis.org.
One last bit of information I'd like to share before I say adieu. I learned a very helpful and interesting fact through my research of Girls on the Run. According to a new study at Washington University School of Medicine and Harvard University, physical activity during adolescence and young adulthood can reduce women's risk of early breast cancer. So let's keep those girls running! As for some of us at Brown's, we'll be attending the next great race with an ever-growing purpose. The Susan G. KomenRace for the Cure is this weekend in Saint Louis. The local goal this year is to raise $3,000,000 for breast cancer research.
Come back soon for the RFTC blog to see how the event turns out!
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