It's a nonprofit that helps girls built confidence and life skills.  The Sierras Chapter of Girls on the Run has helped thousands of girls in third through eighth grade since 2007.

"We inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident while creatively integrating physical activity," said Sierra Chapter Executive Director Joy Heuer.  "It's not running necessarily - if they want to run, we welcome them to run -  but it's about physical activity.  We're building confidence and character, helping them make those lasting connections, find their voice.  They're learning about how to be a good friend, how to break up with friends, all of those soft skills that are really going to help them throughout life."

The next session starts in September and they are looking for participants and coaches - no special skills required.

"All you need to have time and a smile," Heuer said.   "We give you everything else; we give you the book, the curriculum, the snacks, everything the coach will need.  We just want your time, your energy and your smile for these little girls.  You don't have to be a runner, a teacher, you don't have to be a Mom or Dad; we're just looking for people that want to give back to their community in this capacity."

Girls on the Run provides hands-on training as well and coaches play a major part in the 10-week program.

"I'm a coach in the Spring and it is very rewarding," Heuer said.   "I get from them more than I give.  I am inspired, I cry in my car - good, happy tears - because they are amazing little ladies.  our little girls here are so in tune with our community and what's happening in the nation and the world.   They have their voices, they know what they want and they are going after it and it's just incredible."

There is a drop-in session at Eclipse Running on Lakeside Drive on Tuesday, July 23rd from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.  Anyone interested in coaching is invited to stop in, have some pizza, and learn about what the program has to offer.

More information:  https://www.facebook.com/GOTRSierras/

                              https://www.girlsontherunsierras.org/

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