In an era where fostering confidence and resilience in young girls is more crucial than ever, Girls on the Run (GOTR) stands out as a transformative after-school program. Designed for girls aged eight to 12, GOTR blends physical activity with vital life lessons, aiming to empower participants through a curriculum that tackles issues like body image, bullying, and self-esteem. One of the folks at the helm of this impactful initiative is Sonal Modisette, the Grant Manager at Girls on the Run International.
GOTR operates through a federated model, encompassing 165 independent councils throughout the U.S. and Canada. Each season culminates in a celebratory 5K event, where participants—some as young as eight—cross the finish line after running, walking, or skipping a 3.1-mile course. This achievement symbolizes not just physical endurance but a significant boost in confidence for these young girls.
"Completing a 5K is a monumental accomplishment for girls in this age group," Sonal says. "It encapsulates the essence of our program…empowering girls to tackle challenges and celebrate their successes."
Sonal brings a unique background to her role at GOTR. After spending over a decade in the tech industry, she shifted her career during the economic downturn of 2008. Embracing her passion for running, Sonal became a volunteer for the program while supporting her niece as a running buddy. This initial involvement blossomed into a professional commitment; she joined Girls on the Run of Puget Sound in 2015 and transitioned to the headquarters in 2023 where she works on pursuing avenues of grant funding.
"My journey from tech to nonprofit was driven by my desire to make a tangible difference in girls' lives," Sonal says. "Being part of an organization that promotes such a positive mission makes every day fulfilling."
While the work is undeniably rewarding, Sonal acknowledges the inherent challenges of working in the nonprofit sector, such as reaching communities that are traditionally marginalized or lack access to their programs. However, she sees this challenge as an opportunity for growth, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to inclusivity through scholarships and resources. Whether it’s access to funding, mentorship, proper running shoes, or transportation, GOTR is committed to making sure that everyone is able to participate.
The most gratifying aspect of her role, Sonal says, is seeing the impact of the organization’s work on everyday lives. GOTR reaches approximately 200,000 girls each year, and they leave the program more confident, which is a step toward building a brighter future.
In a landscape with many female-forward organizations, GOTR distinguishes itself through its intentional curriculum, which combines life lessons with physical activity. "External studies validate that our program works," Sonal says. "Girls build confidence and life skills that extend beyond the program itself, fostering long-lasting positive habits."
Support for GOTR comes from a diverse range of donors, from local families who rally around their community councils to raise funds, to larger philanthropic entities that recognize the profound impact of the program. This varied support network includes individual donors inspired by the mission, corporate sponsors eager to contribute to youth empowerment, and foundations committed to funding initiatives that promote healthy development and self-confidence in girls.
"When people understand our mission, it becomes easy to rally support," Sonal says. “Our events that showcase the program's impact often inspire generosity, fueling the initiative's growth.”
Beyond its status as an after-school program, GOTR aims to be a movement for empowering young girls. "We envision a world where every girl can boldly pursue her dreams," Sonal says. The program's ripple effect extends into communities, fostering engagement among families and volunteers, with nearly 50,000 trained coaches supporting the initiative each year.
As GOTR continues to expand its reach to Canadian locations—currently operating in Ottawa and planning to launch in Edmonton—their mission remains clear: to cultivate the next generation of empowered women. In doing so, they not only change individual lives but also inspire a broader cultural shift toward inclusivity and resilience.