If you have ever wondered how something as simple as shoes can shape a season, a local nonprofit is offering a clear answer this winter.
Girls on the Run Sierras is launching its annual community-wide shoe drive, running now through the end of February, with a goal of restocking inventory ahead of the spring season.
The nonprofit provides brand-new athletic shoes to any program participant who asks for them, a move organizers say helps remove barriers so children can safely take part in physical activity.
“Providing new athletic shoes to girls who need them ensures that every participant can fully take part in our program with confidence and dignity,” said Joy Heuer, Executive Director of Girls on the Run Sierras. “This shoe drive is a powerful example of how community support directly impacts the health, well-being, and success of the girls we serve.”
Collection boxes are set up at businesses across Reno, Sparks, and Carson City, including Burn Boot Camp Reno, Charles River Laboratories, Great Basin Federal Credit Union, Kaia Fit Sierra, NV Energy, Peak Performance Chiropractic, PK Electrical, Inc., Plumas Bank, Reno Sport Spine Institute, Sierra Sotheby’s International Realty, The Laughton Company, and at United Federal Credit Union.
Community members are encouraged to donate new athletic shoes in Big Kid sizes.
Shoes can also be purchased through the Girls on the Run Sierras wish lists on Amazon, Target, or Walmart, or from any retailer, and dropped off at participating locations through February 28.
Girls on the Run Sierras is a 501c3 nonprofit established in California in 2007 and Nevada in 2011.
The organization uses trained volunteer coaches to lead lessons that combine physical activity with life skills such as managing emotions, building friendships, and expressing empathy. The group has served more than 5,000 Reno-Tahoe girls.
More information is available at girlsontherunsierras.org.
