Girls on the Run Portland Metro Launches Virtual Fall Season
On August 20th, Girls on the Run Portland Metro (GOTR) announced the launch of its inaugural fall season. GOTR is a leader in delivering evidence-based, life skills curriculum to girls of all abilities. For the 2020-2021 school year, GOTR is offering a flexible program model to accommodate the changing and unpredictable school year due to the pandemic. Registration for the season in open at girlsontherunpdx.org.
“Our staff and coaches are ready to bring critical social-emotional programming to girls in the Portland metro area and SW Washington at a time when they need it the most,” said Mavia Haight, executive director of Girls on the Run Portland Metro. “We have adapted based on the recommendations of local health officials and decisions of local governments and school districts. Our fluid model will work completely in-person, meet virtually, or can seamlessly transition between the two as needed. We will also facilitate virtual-only teams to ensure a greater level of access for girls.”
Social-emotional learning is the cornerstone of GOTR’s research-based lessons. Meeting twice a week in small teams, the curriculum blends physical activity with skill development and is shown to have a more lasting impact than physical education alone. The curriculum includes three parts: valuing ourselves, establishing healthy relationships, and understanding how to connect with and shape the world at large. For example, an early lesson focuses on identifying and processing emotions, a skill that is critically important these days. Moreover, GOTR teaches girls to stand up for themselves and others, with a lesson on being a “stand-byer” instead of a bystander.
Haight added, “By creating an inclusive and action-oriented environment, we are empowering the next generation of strong, empathic women.”
Flexible Programming Model
If schools and sites are in session, GOTR afterschool programming can be delivered as in the past, with enhanced safety measures including physical distancing modifications. Should school and site close, the program will be easily transitioned to a virtual model, with lessons that mirror the in-person program. This fluid programming model ensures that participants will experience the social, emotional, and physical outcomes of the program while allowing local teams to adjust to changes in the school and community health guidelines throughout the season.
100% Virtual
Virtual fall programming is delivered by trained coaches in a safe virtual space, with lessons that mirror the in-person Girls on the Run or Heart & Sole program. Virtual programming will include physical activity and social-emotional learning, providing girls with an opportunity to still build meaningful connections with their peers and caring adult role models.
Volunteer coaches will receive the training and materials required to provide girls a safe, trauma-sensitive space to learn valuable life lessons and be active.
Added Haight, “Together, we will find a way to motivate girls to nurture their physical and emotional health, no matter the circumstances.”
GOTR at Home Activity Kit
For 25 years, Girls on the Run has provided evidence-based programming that builds confidence and empathy in girls when they need it the most. Girls on the Run is proud to unveil the GOTR at Home Activity Kit. Designed to fuel girls’ mind, body and spirit, the kit includes 50 activities that emphasize the important connection between physical and emotional health. Each activity helps girls learn valuable skills such as how to cope when things get difficult, demonstrate care for self and others, and practice positivity. From the silly starters to the fun movement games and challenges, girls will laugh, create, and grow through each activity. The kits will be available on September 28, 2020.
ABOUT GIRLS ON THE RUN OF PORTLAND METRO
Through more than 100 sites across the Portland metro area, GOTR has served more than 6,500 girls since it was founded in 2007. Last year, over $75,000 was provided in financial assistance to 41% of participants, ensuring that the program remains accessible to all girls who wish to participate. This included school-based financial assistance at 20 Community Access Partner (CAP) teams at schools where 70% or more of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. For more information, visit www.girlsontherunpdx.org and follow on Instagram and Facebook @GirlsontheRunPDX.
