Interested in Girls on the Run but not sure what bringing a team to your community would involve? Starting a GOTR team doesn’t require special expertise, a running background, or a major time commitment. It starts with one simple decision: you want girls in your community to have access to confidence-building support during a critical stage of development.
Each year, thousands of volunteers partner with Girls on the Run to bring our research-based after-school program to schools, community centers, and local parks. With a proven program model and support from your local council every step of the way, starting a Girls on the Run team in your area is more approachable than many people expect.
Ready to get started? Here’s how to bring Girls on the Run to your school in three steps.
Step 1: Connect with Your Local Girls on the Run Council
The first step is simple: let us know you want to bring GOTR to your community!
We’ll then connect you with the Girls on the Run council that serves your area. Your local council will walk you through the process of starting a team, including site requirements, scheduling, volunteer coaches, and other logistics. They’ll also give you a clear picture of the support councils provide from start to finish, so you know what’s handled for you and what’s needed at the site level to help you prepare for a successful season.
“From the lessons to the coaches, each practice taught me something valuable about how to navigate the world.” – Khalya, GOTR Alum
Step 2: Get Your Community Involved
Once you’ve connected with your local council and your site application is approved, you’re ready to spread the word! With council guidance, you’ll work with your school or community partner to confirm volunteer coaches, confirm program details, and tell girls and families that a GOTR team is on the way.
Your local council will help you understand coaching requirements and identify volunteers who are excited to support girls. Coaches don’t need to be runners or have previous coaching experience. All coaches receive training, resources, and ongoing support to help them bring the Girls on the Run curriculum to life.
In addition, councils provide ready-to-use recruitment resources, making it easy to build awareness and generate excitement. Girl registration continues as you prepare for the season to begin.
“I witnessed firsthand our students engage with and benefit from each lesson and practice.” – Brandon, Principal and GOTR Coach
Step 3: Launch Your Girls on the Run Team
Your first practice is here!
Once coaches complete online and in-person training and receive their “Coach Box” with all necessary program resources, and caregivers register their girls, the season begins. Girls on the Run teams meet twice a week over the course of an 8-to-10-week season, engaging in joyful physical activities, meaningful discussions, and lessons that help build confidence, skills, and healthy habits that last a lifetime.
Throughout the season, councils remain active partners, providing guidance, resources, and support as questions arise. The season culminates in a non-competitive Girls on the Run 5K. This event celebrates effort, growth, and limitless potential while bringing families and communities together.
85% of alums say they still use skills they learned at Girls on the Run.
More than 2.8 million girls have experienced the joy and impact of Girls on the Run since 1996. In 2027, we hope to expand this reach with new program sites in areas where GOTR is needed most.
Research confirms that Girls on the Run participants use what they learn in school and at home, they have fun and feel included, and schools see positive climate benefits. With turnkey direction and full council support, starting a Girls on the Run team is both achievable and transformative.
Take the first step today and bring this proven program to girls in your community.
