Girls on the Run relies on volunteers to make the program successful. We offer several volunteer opportunities to fit everyone’s schedule.
5K Run Volunteer (no running required!)
The 10-week Girls on the Run program concludes with an end of season 5k run. Volunteers may serve as course monitors, help with set up and tear down, manage start and finish lines, aid stations, and much more. We have a job for everyone who wants to help! Volunteer Registration is now open for the Girls on the Run 5k Powered by BlueKC.
Volunteer to Coach
Volunteering as a coach with Girls on the Run is a life-changing experience. You share your time and energy, and help instill a positive self-image in girls in grades 3rd-8th. Our volunteer coaches are typically parents, coaches, runners, community volunteers and teachers. You do not have to be a runner to be a Girls on the Run coach. The main requirement is enthusiasm and a desire to further the GOTR mission!
Our volunteer coaches work with girls after school, leading them through the Girls on the Run-developed curriculum, stretching and running activities, and training for the end-of-season 5K run. Programs meet twice a week for 60-75 minutes between 2:45-5:00 pm. The program is offered twice a year from September-November (fall season), and March-May (spring season).
Girls on the Run lead coaches are female and are at least 21 years of age. Assistant coaches are male or female, at least 18 years of age. All coaches must pass a background check before the season begins.
More details are available in the job description.
Ready to become a coach?
- Complete the Volunteer Form
- Attend CPR training organized and partially paid for by GOTR (first-time Head Coach only) or provide proof of CPR certification
- Attend a 1-day coach training session
- Consent to a background check
Running Buddies
Want to use the power of running to make a difference in the life of a girl? Consider becoming a Running Buddy!
Each girl that participates in the 10-week Girls on the Run program will be paired up with another runner for the end-of-season 5k. Typically this is a parent, sibling, relative or friend of the girl’s family. In some cases, a girl may not be able to find a suitable buddy runner. When this happens, her GOTR coach will work with the Program Coordinator to pair the girl with a volunteer Running Buddy.
Girls on the Run International regulations requires each GOTR council to conduct a background check on all Running Buddies to ensure the safety of the girls.
To become a Running Buddy, complete the Running Buddy Questionnaire.