FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Deborah Pleva
(503) 250-4750
BNP Paribas Supports Girls on the Run International through Points for Change Initiative
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (February 29, 2024) – Today, Girls on the Run International, a nonprofit that empowers young girls, announced it has partnered with BNP Paribas, Europe’s leading financial institution and a global sponsor of tennis, via the bank’s inaugural “Points for Change” campaign at the BNP Paribas Open.
Through the Points for Change initiative, BNP Paribas will donate $1 for every point scored during the 2024 BNP Paribas Open to Girls on the Run International. The BNP Paribas Open is a professional tennis tournament held at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in Indian Wells, California. The tournament runs from March 3 to March 17, 2024.The BNP Paribas Open is the largest combined ATP Tour Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 tennis event in the world.
Michelle Sprod, head of marketing and communications, Americas for BNP Paribas said, “BNP Paribas is proud to collaborate with Girls on the Run via our Points for Change campaign. For more than 50 years, we have demonstrated that tennis is a powerful catalyst for positive change, empowering communities worldwide both on and off the court. By joining forces with Girls on the Run, BNP Paribas reaffirms its commitment to promoting education and inclusion through sport.”
“Girls on the Run is honored to partner with BNP Paribas through their impactful Points for Change Initiative, which drives substantial transformation in youth sports equality,” said Elizabeth Wian, senior vice president of partnerships and development at Girls on the Run. “Now more than ever, girls need the skills to build their confidence, develop meaningful relationships, and discover the joy of movement that Girls on the Run provides, and we’re grateful for the investment from BNP Paribas in expanding our work.”
The funds raised will help Girls on the Run increase the reach and access of its empowerment programs, amplify the organization’s work to drive national participation and develop curricula, resources, and tools to further the organization’s mission. Funding will also support Girls on the Run programming, specifically in the Coachella Valley, where the BNP Paribas Open is hosted.
Officially launched during the 2023 French Open, BNP Paribas’ “Points for Change” campaign is active at all professional tournaments sponsored by BNP Paribas. Every point scored during these tournaments is turned into donations to benefit local associations promoting education and inclusion through sport.
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About Girls on the Run
Girls on the Run International (GOTRI) creates and offers after-school empowerment programs designed for 3rd– to 8th-grade girls. The national nonprofit helps participants recognize their inner strength, increase their level of physical activity, imagine their possibilities, and confidently stand up for themselves and others through the innovative integration of fun physical activities, life-skills lessons, and impactful community projects. The research-based curriculum led by trained volunteer coaches explores core topics relevant to 8- to 13-year-old girls, including understanding emotions, fostering friendships, expressing empathy, and standing up for ourselves. The coaches and curriculum create a sense of belonging for all participants and meet the vital needs of girls today. The program culminates in a community impact project and a celebratory 5K. Since it was founded in 1996, this national movement has served more than 2.25 million girls in all 50 states and Canada. Learn more at girlsontherun.org.