Girls on the Run Piedmont

Girls on the Run Piedmont: A Mental Health Movement in Motion

At Girls on the Run Piedmont, we believe that mental health is health—and we are one of Virginia’s most impactful youth prevention programs in disguise. Through a proven, research-based curriculum that blends physical activity with social-emotional learning, we give girls in grades 3–8 the tools to thrive emotionally, socially, and physically.

But we don’t just talk about empowerment—we run it.

Why We Need You

Virginia ranks 48th in the nation for access to youth mental health care. Meanwhile, 3 in 5 teen girls report feeling persistently sad or hopeless, and confidence begins to plummet as early as fifth grade. Girls are asking for help in the only ways they know how—and programs like Girls on the Run are answering that call.

Despite rising costs, we’ve remained committed to accessibility. In 2023, it cost $408 to fully serve one girl, but we’ve never turned away a family who couldn’t pay. With a sliding scale fee capped at $150, families pay only what they can. We also provide running shoes and sports bras for girls who need them to participate fully.

Your support helps us keep this promise.

Help Us Keep Girls Running Strong

The true cost of our program continues to rise with increased prices for insurance, curriculum materials, healthy snacks, and training for coaches. But increasing costs for families isn't the answer.

Your donation helps us:

• Keep the program affordable for all families.

• Provide essentials like shoes and bras.

• Train and support caring, trauma-informed coaches.

• Protect and expand our youth mental health–centered curriculum.

Our Impact

When girls participate in Girls on the Run:

• 95% report feeling more confident.

• 92% learn how to handle big emotions.

• 98% feel like they belong.

• Physical activity increases by over 40%, even among the least active girls.

And it's not just about running. It's about showing up—for yourself, your team, and your future.

What Parents & Coaches Say

“My daughter stood up in class and volunteered for the first time in years—thanks to Girls on the Run.” – GOTR Parent

“Being a coach has made me a better person…a better mom.” – Coach Brynne

“One of our girls crossed the 5K finish line in tears because she was so proud of herself.” – Coach Erin

Together, We Can Change the Narrative

With your help, Girls on the Run Piedmont will continue to be a powerful, proven solution in the face of Virginia’s youth mental health crisis.

 Please give today to ensure that every girl in our region has access to this life-changing program.

Serving Culpeper, Fauquier, Fredericksburg, Madison, Rappahannock, Spotsylvania, and Stafford counties.

Learn more: www.gotrpiedmont.org