Sophia’s Transformation

Sophia, a 12-year-old participant with a bright spirit and a shy demeanor, lives with her single mother. Like many families facing financial challenges, enrolling in extracurricular activities was a distant dream for them. Our “pay what you can” model changed that. It allowed Sophia’s mother to easily register her daughter through a simple online form, bypassing the need for any uncomfortable financial discussions. This small act of kindness provided Sophia a place in our program, ensuring she didn’t miss out on the opportunity to grow.

The joyous day Sophia received a pair of Adidas running shoes—a thoughtful gift from our program funded by generous donations—marked a new beginning for her. She excitedly exclaimed, “I have real running shoes now!” The gift of these shoes, the first real running shoes she ever owned, symbolized a new realm of possibilities. Witnessing her transformation from a reserved girl into an enthusiastic leader, radiating confidence at each session, is a powerful affirmation of why we do what we do.

The Importance of Your Support

Each story like Sophia’s underscores the importance of community support. In 2024 alone, we were able to provide over 50 pairs of running shoes and nearly $30,000 in financial aid, thanks to our compassionate donors. However, the need continues to grow. Despite our efforts, we faced the difficult reality of turning away two teams due to resource constraints.

This holiday season, I urge you to consider what such a gift can mean. A monthly pledge to our Champions of Change program does more than just fund the necessities—it builds a foundation for these young girls to thrive:

• $10/month (Friend): Helps provide program materials.
• $25/month (Supporter): Supplies a girl with running shoes and program essentials.
• $50/month (Advocate): Covers the full program cost for one girl.
• $100/month (Champion): Funds an entire team’s participation in our bi-annual 5K events.

A Call to Action

Join us in making a significant difference. Your support ensures that no girl like Sophia has to face the sidelines. By becoming a part of our Champions of Change, you contribute to a supportive community that believes in empowering every girl to realize her potential.

Looking for a meaningful gift that truly makes a difference? This holiday season, you can also sign up someone special as a Champion for Change with Girls on the Run Piedmont! 🌟

When you gift a Champion membership, your designee will receive a beautifully designed certificate, perfect for framing, along with a special piece of exclusive GOTR swag (hint it will be a great way to stay warm) to show off their commitment to empowering girls in our community.

It’s more than just a gift—it’s a way to inspire confidence, strength, and joy in the next generation of girls. Together, we can make this holiday season one of kindness, giving, and change. 💖

This season, let’s give gifts that truly matter—gifts that empower, inspire, and transform. Thank you for standing with us, sharing our vision, and helping each girl in our program step boldly into her future.

https://www.gotrpiedmont.org/giving/Girls-on-the-Run-Piedmont-champions

Warmest holiday wishes,

Kathy Butler, Executive Director