By Mike McKenna
They end every season at Girls On The Run (GOTR) with a “Color Me Fearless 5k” fun run and celebration. But these annual spring and fall events are about a lot more than just running a few miles.
They are the culmination of a season of effort, of growth and of friendships.
“The goal of our programs is to boost girls’ self-confidence and empower them to lift themselves up and help lift up others,” said Teressa Johnson, the executive director of GOTR Southern Idaho.
“One of the best ways to boost self-confidence is through accomplishments,” Teressa said. “Training for and completing a 5k is an accomplishment to be proud of.”
Teressa has done a terrific job of reviving a nonprofit that had grown dormant during the COVID years. This spring alone there will be 139 girls in our region taking part in their programs. GOTR offers a program for girls in third through fifth grades, while the Heart & Soul program is for sixth- through eighth-graders. In addition to Blaine and Twin Falls counties, the program is now offered in Lincoln and Minidoka counties as well.
And it’s easy to understand why GOTR is so popular. It’s based on a growth mindset curriculum, or, as some participants and their parents call it, a “girl empowerment program.”
The curriculum focuses on cultivating healthy relationships and growing self-confidence. It uses movement and the accessibility of running and walking as the main conduit. Unlike most sporting endeavors, GOTR makes it okay to fail and focuses on the importance and reward of lifting others up.
Studies have shown that a staggering one out of every three girls playing youth sports reports being picked on by boy teammates. That’s why girl-only teams in sports like softball, volleyball and hockey are growing. It’s also one of the strengths of GOTR.
“Just girls-only creates a safe space,” Teressa said. “Our program allows for the joys and camaraderie of sports without the stress of competition.”
In addition to training for the 5k, the girls also pick an impact project to work on together. They have created projects like positive messaging posters for local schools and St. Luke’s hospital. They’ve sent thank you cards to local nonprofit staffers and to veterans.
The slogan for GOTR is “Find your happy pace,” something that’s different for everyone. “It all starts with each individual girl. What makes her special, unique, beautiful,” Teressa explained.
One of the first things they work on in practice is cheering each other on. The girls quickly realize that it feels good to support other people. It also becomes clear that it’s a lot easier to do great things when you get some help.
Putting on a big celebration with food vendors, field games, live music and colorful runners completing a 5k takes a lot of support. GOTR could use more help.
This spring’s GOTR Color Run 5k Celebration will be held on the morning of Saturday, May 31, at Hailey Elementary School’s fields. If you’re interested in volunteering or supporting the event, contact Teressa.Johnson@GirlsOnTheRun.org or call (208) 788-7863.
