Girls on the Run, New Orleans

Girls on the Run cultivates an active, noncompetitive atmosphere for 8- to 13-year-olds, meeting twice a week in small teams of 8-20 girls teaching life skills through fun, engaging lessons that celebrate the joy of movement. Their programs help them develop confidence and a healthy body image through playing games and going for runs with each other. The 20-lesson curriculum is taught by certified Girls on the Run coaches and includes three parts: understanding ourselves, valuing relationships and teamwork, and understanding how we connect with and shape the world at large. At the end of each 10-week program, 400 girls and their running buddies from 28 sites lace up their running shoes for the Girls on the Run 5K. Following the event, participants gather for a heart-healthy breakfast. It is encouraged that attendees bring any and all old shoes to donate and pass on the joy of running to others.