As a coach for Girls on the Run, I’ve seen girls grow through this program. I see it in their increased self-confidence, their connection with others at the end of the season, and when they return as thoughtful leaders who encourage new teammates to be themselves and try their best.

After 20 years of volunteering in multiple roles, I saw this firsthand as my third grader joined Girls on the Run. Over the years, countless parents have thanked me for the changes they saw in their children. Now it’s my turn to thank all of you.

On Sunday, I cheered alongside coaches, families, and friends until our voices were hoarse, as girl after girl ran through the finish line, marking the end of the Spring 2023 5K and the start of what’s to come. Seeing my daughter and her friends beaming as they looked at their medals – tangible proof that they can do hard things – and celebrating their accomplishments was the ultimate gift. Their faces and actions prove they know they can do it, whatever “it” may be.

Girls on the Run is a life-changing program. The lessons help girls learn to navigate friendships and emotions, increase self-confidence, make intentional decisions, and identify how to be strong individuals and community members. The learning doesn’t stop at the end of each practice either, our family continued these conversations on big topics at home. We learned more about one another, and I was impressed with how much my daughter and her friends referenced these lessons when tricky situations came up at school and in other activities.  

Girls on the Run is a life-changing program. The lessons help girls learn to navigate friendships and emotions, increase self-confidence, make intentional decisions, and identify how to be strong individuals and community members. The learning doesn’t stop at the end of each practice either, our family continued these conversations on big topics at home. We learned more about one another, and I was impressed with how much my daughter and her friends referenced these lessons when tricky situations came up at school and in other activities.  

Your support powers Girls on the Run. Please join me in making sure more girls can experience the power and self-confidence that results from accomplishing big goals by donating if you're able. Girls on the Run of Puget Sound aims to ensure all girls can access this program. 

I am confident our Girls on the Run participants have what it takes to make our community and our world a better place with the life skills and healthy habits they gained.

Thank you for making it possible, 

Rebecca Gerben Mehta
Parent & Girls on the Run Coach
Advisory Council Member