Program For Girls Seeks Coaches

Carrie Johnson, executive director with Girls on the Run (GOTR) Lancaster, wants to make it clear that the program is open to all girls in the age groups it serves. "Any girl can participate," said Johnson. "We want to remove all limitations, whether financial, physical, or emotional. We want to remove those so that any girl can benefit."

In accordance with that goal, the spring 2021 program has been changed to accommodate COVID-19 restrictions. "We've adapted our program to make it totally safe and flexible for girls and coaches," explained program director Jennifer West, who noted that the organization allows participants to connect with their friends in person or virtually. A new virtual curriculum was written to match in-person lessons, and the program has eliminated shared materials by providing each girl with her own journals, hand sanitizer, and a cinch sack for storage. Masking and social distancing in compliance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines are followed. Team members meet in person when they can, at their school if possible, or in parks, at churches, or in community buildings. West explained that if schools close, a virtual practice can be held, with the lesson presented virtually.

West stated that what has not changed is the lesson content. GOTR's goals are to promote good choices for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living among girls. "They still get the same great lessons about practicing empathy and standing up for themselves and others, and we still take part in a community impact project," shared West.

GOTR staff members are looking for places for students to meet and are also seeking volunteer team coaches, which are essential to the program. "It's a unique mentoring opportunity," said Johnson, who added that the girls who participate are not the only ones who benefit. "It changes a coach's life," she noted.

West pointed out that coaches need not be runners. "Men, women, college students, and high school students (can be coaches)," said West, who added that having a heart to help girls grow up with self-esteem is key. "You have to have a desire to help the girls and have meaningful conversations," explained West. "Be a positive role model, be silly, and play fun games - that's what our coaches do." West added that training materials for volunteer coaches are online and self-paced. "We provide the curriculum, all the materials, and support to get them set up for a successful season," she stated.

Johnson added that girls are especially in need of GOTR programming during these unusual times. "Seventy-nine percent of our girls are experiencing feelings of loneliness and depression as a result of the pandemic," said Johnson. "We need our coaches to lead now more than ever."

West agreed. "(The girls) need the social interaction with friends in a safe environment, and that's what GOTR is," she said.

"GOTR is a safe space where girls can gather and truly belong," Johnson stated.

Registration for the spring season will open on Monday, March 1, and the season will begin on Monday, March 29. Readers who wish to register a girl or volunteer may visit http://www.gotrlancaster.org. Individuals with questions may email jwest@gotrlancaster.org.