Girls on the Run Southeast Michigan: Empowering Girls to Shine from the Inside Out
For 24 years, Girls on the Run Southeast Michigan (GOTR SEMI) has been inspiring girls across Washtenaw, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, and Monroe counties to boldly pursue their dreams. Through a unique blend of physical activity and life-skills education, this nonprofit is on a mission to create a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential.
💖 What Makes Girls on the Run So Special?
Designed for girls in 3rd through 6th grade, GOTR is more than just a running program. It’s a transformational experience that nurtures emotional, social, and physical well-being. Led by trained volunteer coaches, each session explores topics like managing emotions, building friendships, and expressing empathy—all while moving and having fun.
The program culminates in two powerful experiences:
- A community impact project, where girls give back in meaningful ways.
- A non-competitive 5K celebration, where every girl crosses the finish line with pride and confidence.
🏃♀️ New Season, New Curriculum: “Hello, Boldheart!”
This spring, GOTR SEMI is launching its brand-new curriculum, “Hello, Boldheart!” Over the course of eight weeks, girls meet twice a week for 90 minutes, learning to use their voices, resolve conflicts, and build healthy habits. The season wraps up with the Girls on the Run 5K on May 9th at Eastern Michigan University—a joyful, community-wide event where every girl shines.
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💼 What’s Included?
Every participant receives:
- 16 dynamic lessons (24 hours of instruction)
- Official GOTR gear: shirt, cinch sack, and water bottle
- Activity journal and handouts
- Grown Ups Guide for caregivers
- Entry to the 5K, bib, medal, and keepsake
- End-of-season celebration and certificate
Registration opens December 8, and thanks to a sliding scale fee ($0–$225), the program is accessible to all. Athletic shoes and clothing are also available for those in need.
💬 Real Impact, Real Voices
With over 27,000 girls served and nearly 9,000 scholarships awarded, the impact of GOTR SEMI is undeniable. In 2024 alone, the organization provided over $125,000 in financial aid and outfitted 305 girls with athletic gear.
Here’s what participants and caregivers are saying:
“I learned at Girls on the Run that you don’t have to be like others. You be you.”
“I became more confident.”
“Girls can do anything!!”
🙌 How You Can Get Involved
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or community member, there are so many ways to support GOTR SEMI:
- Become a coach or junior coach (no running experience required!)
- Apply to host a site at your school or community center
- Volunteer at the May 9th 5K
- Donate to the scholarship fund or become a sponsor
- Join the board and help shape the future of the program
✨ Bonus: Educators who coach can earn 6 continuing education credits, and full-time coaches receive a 50% discount on registration fees.
🥞 Upcoming Event: Limitless Potential Breakfast
Mark your calendar for Thursday, November 13 and join GOTR SEMI for their inaugural Limitless Potential Breakfast—a morning of networking, storytelling, and community support. Help unlock the potential of girls across Southeast Michigan!
🎟️ Get your ticket or become a sponsor
📲 Stay Connected
Follow Girls on the Run Southeast Michigan for updates, inspiration, and ways to get involved:
Girls on the Run Southeast Michigan is more than a program—it’s a movement. One that’s helping girls discover their strength, build lasting confidence, and realize they can do anything.
