Greater Cincinnati families have a new opportunity to help their middle‑school daughters develop confidence, fitness and healthy habits. Girls on the Run, a national nonprofit dedicated to empowering young girls through structured running programs, announced that registration for its 2026 fall season is open through September 13.
Program focus and community impact
According to Annie Horn, executive director of Girls on the Run Greater Cincinnati, the curriculum blends regular physical activity with lessons on goal‑setting, teamwork and self‑esteem. “Middle school can be a challenging time for girls,” Horn said in a recent interview. “We see confidence slipping, activity levels dropping, and mental‑health concerns rising. Our program is designed to counter those trends by providing a supportive, faith‑friendly environment where girls can thrive.”
The program runs for 12 weeks, culminating in a celebratory 5‑K run where participants showcase the skills they have learned. Each week includes a short run, a classroom session led by trained coaches, and a community‑service component that encourages girls to give back to their neighborhoods.
Why families should consider enrolling
Parents and guardians are encouraged to view Girls on the Run as an extension of the family’s role in nurturing strong, resilient children. The program aligns with traditional family values by emphasizing personal responsibility, respect for authority, and the importance of community service. Horn noted that many families report noticeable improvements in their daughters’ school performance and social interactions after completing the program.
In addition to physical benefits, the curriculum addresses mental‑wellness by teaching coping strategies, gratitude practices, and positive self‑talk. These tools are especially valuable in today’s fast‑changing cultural landscape, where young people often face pressures that can undermine their sense of self.
How to register
Registration is available online through the Girls on the Run Greater Cincinnati website. The deadline to sign up for the fall season is Sunday, September 13. Fees are modest, and financial assistance is offered to families in need, ensuring that no girl is turned away because of cost.
Community leaders, local churches, and schools have expressed strong support for the program, recognizing it as a constructive alternative to sedentary after‑school activities. By partnering with local businesses and faith‑based organizations, Girls on the Run continues to reinforce the pillars of family, faith and individual liberty that strengthen our neighborhoods.
Looking ahead
With the fall season now open, Girls on the Run aims to serve over 300 girls across the Greater Cincinnati area. Horn emphasized that the organization remains committed to expanding its reach, hoping to inspire the next generation of confident, healthy women who will carry forward the values of strong families and vibrant communities.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
