An affilate program of the YMCA of Greater Des Moines, Girls on the Run is a transformational physical activity based positive youth development program for girls in 3rd-8th grade. We teach life skills through dynamic, interactive lessons and running games. The program culminates with the girls being physically and emotionally prepared to complete a celebratory 5K running event. The goal of the program is to unleash confidence through accomplishment while establishing a lifetime appreciation of health and fitness. Girls on the Run of Central Iowa is a program of the YMCA of Greater Des Moines and is an affiliate council of Girls on the Run International, which has a network of over 200 councils across 50 states and the District of Columbia. Girls on the Run started serving Polk County in 2007. Since our inception we have grown to serve over 19 counties. We serve anywhere between 300-1,000 girls at 25 + sites every season and are proud to serve girls and families in throughout Iowa. Mission: We inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running. Vision: We envision a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams.
