GOTR pairs running instruction with mentorship and social-emotional learning, giving girls in grades 3-8 the strength and support they need to thrive in life. Twice a week for ten weeks, girls meet with their mentors after school in small groups, challenging themselves physically while engaging in goal setting and team-building activities that build their confidence, stamina, and character. GOTR tailors its evidence-based curricula by age group, addressing the different self-esteem, academic, and other issues girls face in elementary and middle school. At the end of the season, every girl completes a 5K run with an adult running buddy — achieving a milestone they set for themselves. Across all eight wards of DC and in part of Prince George’s County, GOTR promotes the well-being of 1700+ girls annually and inspires them to believe in themselves.

Headquarters: DC-Ward 5

Where They Operate: DC-Citywide; MD-Prince George's County

Age Groups Served: Youth (5-11); Pre-teen/teen (12-17)

Population(s) Served: Women/Girls

Schools They Work In: The schools we serve varies from season to season, however, we serve girls in public, public charter and private schools.


  • Girls on the Run - DC serves girls in 3rd - 8th grade across all 8 wards with 167 teams this year:  
    Over 1,100 program scholarships were provided enabling girls across the District who could not otherwise participate in the program the opportunity to learn to be joyful, healthy and confident through the program.
  • Survey data:  
    Evaluation results demonstrate that girls who participate in Girls on the Run have increased self-esteem, improved body image, and are committed to physical activity.

Awards & Recognition

DC Council Ceremonial Resolution: awarded Spring, 2011 in recognition of the work Girls on the Run - DC has done to promote health and wellness for girls and women throughout all 8 Wards of the District.
Best Running Related Non-Profit, RunWashington Magazine, 2014
CareFirst's Healthy Walks Community Partner, 2014
CareFirst's Healthy Walks Community Partner, 2015

Press

Budget (FY2023)

  • $3 million or higher
  • $1 million to $3 million
  • The current budget for Girls on the Run - DC is: $500k to $1 million
  • Less than $500k

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