Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts to Host 5K Celebration on June 6
NORTHAMPTON — Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts announced the return of its end-of-season 5K celebration on Saturday, June 6 at UMass Amherst. This non-competitive, family-friendly 5K serves as the culminating end-of-season event for local Girls on the Run participants, as well as a community gathering focused on fun, connection, and empowerment.
Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based, positive youth development program that uses fun running games and dynamic discussions to teach life skills to girls in grades 3-8. During the 10-week program, girls participate in lessons that build confidence, foster healthy relationships, and encourage community service while they prepare to complete a 5K.
This spring season, Girls on the Run has 1,100 participants on 73 teams throughout all four Western Mass. counties, with 295 volunteer coaches who bring the curriculum to life.
Participants learn many important life skills through the carefully designed curriculum. One participant wrote, “I like Girls on the Run because it makes you more confident when you’re talking to others, and it helps you control your emotions when you’re feeling sad or anxious.”
The run starts at 10:30 a.m., but the group warmup will begin at 10 a.m., with participants arriving for fun events starting at 9 a.m. Early arrival is recommended as more than 3,000 people are expected.
Participation in the 5K event is open to the public, and all proceeds from the event will benefit Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts. The registration cost is $25 for adults and $10 for youth under age 12 and includes a 5K shirt for the first 1,000 registered. Day-of-event registration opens at 8:30 a.m.
Girls on the Run is also seeking volunteers to support the 5K celebration. The council needs volunteers to help with setup and cleanup, on-course water stations, sideline cheering, Fun Zone activity stations, registration, post-race food and water, and parking.
For more information about the event, how to register, and volunteer opportunities, visit www.girlsontherunwesternma.org.