Grant Report from 'Girls on the Run'

Ever wondered how our grant winners used the funds they were awarded? Girls on the Run submitted this great report on all the good they were able to do with the $2,500 they were awarded:

"I am pleased to share with you our grant report for Girls on the Run – Idaho for 2009. Since receiving your generous grant for the amount of $2,500 we have had two successful 10-week seasons and have served 285 girls in the communities of Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Middleton, Star, Kuna and Caldwell.

Our Spring 2009 season was held from March through May. Our program was offered at thirteen sites across the Treasure Valley in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Star with 139 girls participating and 32 coaches volunteering their time. Our 2009 Fall season was held from September through November. We had sites in twelve locations across the Treasure Valley with 146 girls registered and 33 coaches. We were able add new sites in Kuna and Caldwell during the fall, along with offering our existing sites in Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Star, Middleton and Nampa. While we saw a bit of a decline in our annual numbers from the previous year, we were happy with the numbers we served, especially in this time of financial instability for so many families.

On Saturday, May 2nd, 2009 and Saturday, November 7th, 2009, participants in our program experienced two very important events. These were the days of our community 5Ks for our spring and fall seasons. On May 2nd, Girls on the Run girls from our spring season participated in the East Jr. High Hornet Run. Despite a downpour of rain, over 120 girls came out to accomplish their goal of finishing a 5K. On Saturday, November 7th participants in our fall program completed the Run 4 Freedom 5K in Kuna. Over 100 girls achieved their goal. At each event, coaches, parents and friends lined the course and cheered on each girl, giving them the extra motivation to finish strong. For some of our girls, these 5Ks were their first official races. For all our girls these events were great accomplishments. These girls worked hard all season long preparing for these events and were able to use the tools they gained during our lessons to have the strength and courage to believe in themselves and finish the races.

I’m happy to report that your grant for the amount of $2,500 was used for general operating support during our 2009 year. We used $500 for snacks, $1,000 for program t-shirts and $1,000 for printing.

Our program continues to influence the girls who participate in it. After the Fall 2009 season, one participant said, “I have learned how to be myself.” Another girl shared, “It made me feel like I can do anything I put my mind to.” One parent of a 4th grader said, “My daughter has gained a stronger sense of self-confidence and self-esteem. She also enjoyed the activities, as well as the running.” Another parent of a 5th grader shared, “During Girls on the Run my daughter learned many valuable lessons, made new friends and was part of a team. Being a team player is important and the GOTR program is beneficial to girls’ health.” It is statements like these that allow us to see that our message is being heard. Girls on the Run strives to equip girls with the decision making tools and values necessary to face any type of situation and respond to challenging situations in a positive way. We know that through our program we are changing the lives of girls in the Treasure Valley and creating a community that is healthier both physically and mentally.

We truly appreciate your role in helping our program grow. If you need any further information regarding our 2009 grant please contact us at (208) 388-4687 or info@gotr.org."

Way to support a great organization, Little Black Dress Club members!