BRATTLEBORO — Twenty years ago, 15 girls at Vernon Elementary School enrolled in the Girls on the Run program.
Twenty seasons and 45,000 girls later, Girls on the Run Vermont is thriving and celebrating its 20th anniversary back where it all began in Southern Vermont.
All program participants, alumnae, coaches, parents, board members, and supporters are invited to a noncompetitive, 5K community event on May 18 at Brattleboro Union High School. This event is presented by Against the Grain Gourmet.
“I never could've imagined Girls on the Run Vermont would grow into what it has become today. I am overjoyed and filled with tremendous gratitude to celebrate our 20th birthday where it all began,” said Nancy Heydinger, the program's executive director, in a news release.
Participation in the 5K celebratory event on May 18 is open to the public and all proceeds will benefit Girls on the Run Vermont's Every Girl Fund. This fund helps ensure that every girl in Vermont can participate in the program through automatic subsidies and additional financial assistance to those who need it the most.
This year's 20th Anniversary 5K will have a birthday theme. Community members are encouraged to celebrate, too. Early-bird registration is $10 for children and $20 for adults. Alumni are welcomed back with a special registration offer to run for only $10. Register online at www.gotrvt.org/southern5k until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, May 17.
Day-of registration will take place from 8:30-9:30 a.m. at Brattleboro Union High School, with entry fees of $10 for children and $30 for adults. All GOTRVT participants and coaches who registered for the program do not need to register for the 5K event, which will begin at 10 a.m. Early arrival is suggested.
Volunteers are also needed. From course volunteers and face painting to equipment setup and breakdown, there are many opportunities to get involved.
Individuals, families and groups - school clubs, sports teams, and others - can sign up in advance to volunteer at www.gotrvt.org/southern5k. Community service hours are offered for high schoolers.