At Girls on the Run, we believe that empowering girls goes far beyond physical activity and goal setting—it’s about helping them discover their inner strength and the difference they can make in the world around them. One way we do this is through community impact projects, which are a key part of our curriculum.

 

These projects allow the girls to identify a cause they care about and then take action to support it. Whether it’s organizing a donation drive, helping the environment, or supporting those in need, these projects help them realize that even at a young age, they have the power to create positive change. It’s all about planting seeds—helping girls understand that the small actions they take today can have a lasting impact.

 

When girls take ownership of a project, they develop leadership skills, practice empathy, and see firsthand the ripple effect their actions can have on their communities. This builds confidence, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to service. And just like the lessons we teach in the program, the impact of these projects often goes beyond what we can immediately see or measure.

 

  Introducing Our Council-Wide Project: Reverse Happy Hair 

 

For our Fall 5K, we’re expanding on this tradition with a council-wide community impact project called Reverse Happy Hair. If you’ve been to one of our 5Ks before, you know that one of the highlights of our pre-event celebration is the Happy Hair booth, where girls get to color and decorate their hair in fun, vibrant ways.

 

This year, we’re flipping the script. Instead of girls getting their hair done, we’re inviting them—and all participants—to donate hair care products and accessories to support survivors of domestic violence through our local shelters, S.A.F.E. (Culpeper/Fauquier) and Empowerhouse (Fredericksburg area).

 

  Why Hair Care Products? 

 

For survivors of domestic violence, something as simple as hair care can be a way to regain dignity, self-care, and confidence. Many women and children fleeing violence leave behind everything—including their basic necessities. By providing hair care products like shampoos, conditioners, brushes, and accessories, we can help restore a sense of normalcy and self-worth to those going through such a difficult time.

 

There is a particular need for products suited to diverse hair types, as the women we support reflect the diverse ethnicities within our community. Items such as moisturizers, leave-in treatments, and hair accessories for curly and textured hair are especially appreciated.

 

Our Reverse Happy Hair project will collect:

- Shampoo and conditioner 

- Hairbrushes and combs 

- Hair ties, clips, and accessories 

- Leave-in treatments and moisturizers (especially for curly and textured hair)

 

These items will be collected at the 5K, and as a thank-you, girls who bring donations will receive a fun, Taylor Swift-style beaded bracelet to commemorate their participation.

 

  How You Can Help 

 

We encourage everyone—runners, volunteers, and spectators—to participate in this initiative. The more we collect, the more we can support these incredible local organizations and the families they serve. Together, we can show these survivors that they are seen, valued, and supported by their community.

 

This project is a powerful reminder that we are better together  Just like the girls on our teams, we as a community can make an impact that extends far beyond race day.

 

We’re excited to see the generosity and spirit of our Girls on the Run family come together for this meaningful cause. Let’s turn this 5K into a celebration of empowerment, resilience, and giving back —not just for our girls, but for everyone in our community.

 

--- Join us at the 5K on November 10th at FredNats Baseball Stadium, and don’t forget to bring your hair care donations! Together, we’ll make a difference, one product at a time. After all, if she can run a mile, she can run the world. 🌟