Girls on the Run of Central Illinois is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring girls in grades 3 through 8 to be joyful, healthy, and confident through an innovative, experience-based curriculum that creatively integrates running[2][3][4].

Overview

Established as an independent council of Girls on the Run International, Girls on the Run Central Illinois serves a wide region including Brown, Cass, Christian, DeWitt, Logan, Macon, Mason, McLean, Menard, Montgomery, Morgan, Peoria, Sangamon, Scott, and Tazewell counties. Since its inception in 2004, the organization has positively impacted more than 12,000 girls in the Central Illinois area[1][2].

Mission and Vision

The organization’s mission is to inspire girls to recognize and activate their limitless potential, nurturing social, emotional, and physical skills that empower them to navigate life successfully. It envisions a world where every girl confidently pursues her dreams and embraces her inner strength[2].

Programs and Curriculum

Girls on the Run of Central Illinois offers a 20-lesson curriculum that combines training for a 5K running event with interactive lessons designed to promote life skills such as problem solving, decision making, and team building. The program emphasizes three core areas:

• Understanding oneself
• Valuing relationships and teamwork
• Connecting with and shaping the wider world

Certified coaches lead small teams of 8 to 15 girls, using physical activity and dynamic discussions to foster social, emotional, and physical development while encouraging lifelong healthy habits[3].

At each program's conclusion, participants, alongside their running buddies, complete a celebratory 5K event, which serves as a tangible achievement promoting confidence and goal-setting skills[3].

Commitment to Inclusion and Impact

Girls on the Run Central Illinois is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access at every organizational level, ensuring girls of all abilities and backgrounds can participate. The organization emphasizes the importance of role models and community involvement, encouraging support through volunteering, coaching, and donations to ensure no girl is turned away due to financial hardship[1][2].

Community Involvement

The council has a strong tradition of participant-led service projects and community engagement, contributing to a lasting positive impact in the region it serves[2].

Organizational Structure

As a recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit, Girls on the Run of Central Illinois focuses on youth development through charitable programs that foster physical fitness and empowerment for girls[4].

Girls on the Run of Central Illinois continues to build confidence, kindness, and decision-making skills in young girls, preparing them for a healthy and empowered future through an innovative and uplifting approach that combines physical activity with social and emotional learning[1][5].