For Matthew Litt, Girls on the Run NJ East isn’t just a local program — it’s personal. As a Chesterfield Township Committeeman and former Mayor, Matthew has proudly supported GOTR from his civic platform. But at home, he’s just “Dad” to Nina, a four-season GOTR participant, and husband to Erin, a past volunteer coach.

Matthew first connected with GOTR watching Nina thrive — not just as a runner, but as a leader.

“I saw how much Nina loved GOTR, and how it helped her to grow as an athlete and a leader,” he says. “I wanted to do everything I could to let other girls in Chesterfield know about the program and what it could do for them.”

One of Matthew’s most unforgettable GOTR memories came at last fall’s 5K, when he cheered at the finish line as Erin and Nina crossed together — a moment made even more meaningful as Erin had recently completed chemotherapy and radiation treatments for breast cancer.

Matthew has seen firsthand how GOTR helps girls transform their sense of what’s possible.

“Completing a 5K sounds impossible to children, until they train and actually do it,” he reflects. “After that, a whole lot of things suddenly seem possible.”

Outside of GOTR, Matthew’s work as an attorney is just as purpose-driven. With a rare specialty in gambling law, he goes up against casinos on behalf of addicted gamblers and their families. “This line of work makes me feel even more strongly about the importance and impact of pure sports such as youth running,” he shares.

As GOTR NJ East looks ahead to its next 25 years, Matthew’s hope is simple but powerful: “That GOTR continues to grow, and continues to inspire and teach children the skills and mindset needed to believe and accomplish anything!”