Blog

For ten-year-old Amia Shah, joining Girls on the Run was more than just a new after-school activity—it was a doorway to a world where she felt free, included, and strong.

When Olivia Hall first laced up her sneakers for Girls on the Run, she was following in her mom’s footsteps. Six seasons of GOTR and one season of Heart & Sole later, she’s not just a participant—she’s a total pro.

Kate Zarkewicz basically grew up with Girls on the Run NJ East. She joined as a 3rd grader in Fanwood, completed nine seasons between GOTR and Heart & Sole, and is now giving back as a Junior Coach—a role she dreamed about for years.

When Nick Farr first stepped into the world of Girls on the Run, he wasn’t sure what to expect. A seasoned endurance sports coach, he was used to working with highly trained athletes—not a group of elementary school girls eager to run, play, and share their thoughts.

At Girls on the Run NJ East, we are lucky to have coaches who go above and beyond to uplift young girls. Dr. Lynnette Dortrait is one of those leaders.

We are pleased to share our 2024 Annual Report that shares our accomplishments and stories from last year! 

For mother and daughter Lori and Natalie Kapferer, Girls on the Run has always been more than just a program—it’s been a shared journey, shaping their experiences and strengthening their bond.

Girls on the Run NJ East is pleased to announce the 25th Anniversary “Limitless Potential” Alumni Grant Award! Since our first season in 2000, we have empowered over 25,000 girls through our confidence-boosting program that fosters physical and mental well-being. A generation of girls in New Jersey and beyond are beginning to navigate adulthood with the tools and strategies learned through Girls on the Run. Our vision is a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams. This grant award will recognize and support “GOTR girls” who are now young women with big dreams and even bigger potential!

As part of Girls on the Run NJ East’s 25th anniversary celebration, we’re spotlighting 25 incredible voices that have shaped our journey. First up: Sydney Davis, the founder of Girls on the Run NJ East. From humble beginnings to a movement that has empowered over 25,000 girls, Sydney shares the fun, the challenges, and the moments that still make her smile.