Girls on the Run DFW (GOTR DFW) isn’t just a program—it’s a movement built on connection, confidence, and joy. Each season, hundreds of girls across the Dallas–Fort Worth area lace up their shoes, set goals, challenge their limits, and discover their inner strength through intentional lessons and physical activity. But what makes Girls on the Run truly powerful is the community that stands behind it—the volunteers, coaches, families, and local runners who help bring the program to life.
As more families seek meaningful, empowering youth programs, Girls on the Run continues to grow. And with that growth comes more opportunities for local runners—experienced or brand-new—to get involved, make an impact, and become part of an organization that is changing lives one lap at a time.
Whether you’re looking to volunteer, coach, or simply cheer on young athletes as they cross the finish line, there’s a place for every runner at GOTR DFW. Let’s take a closer look at what we do, how you can get involved, and a recap of the incredible Fall 2025 Girls on the Run DFW 5K Celebration.
What Is Girls on the Run?
Girls on the Run is a national, research-based program that uses running as a tool to teach life skills to girls in 3rd–8th grade. Our curriculum focuses on confidence, self-worth, healthy relationships, emotional regulation, physical wellness, and teamwork—all wrapped into fun, engaging lessons that combine conversation and movement.
At the end of each season, girls participate in a non-competitive, celebratory 5K where every girl is cheered across the finish line. It’s not about speed or competition—it’s about accomplishing a goal they’ve worked toward for weeks, supported by coaches & teammates.
Girls on the Run is built on the belief that every girl deserves the opportunity to discover her limitless potential. Through the support of community members like you, we’re able to deliver this life-changing experience to more girls across DFW—many of whom receive scholarship funding to participate.
Why Runners Love Supporting Girls on the Run
Local runners often tell us that Girls on the Run is the perfect way to use their love of running for something bigger than themselves. Here’s why:
1. It’s a chance to inspire the next generation.
Girls look up to active adults. Just showing up as a supportive, encouraging presence helps them see what’s possible.
2. You don’t need to be a “fast” runner.
GOTR is about movement—not pace. Whether you run ultramarathons or prefer brisk walks, you belong here.
3. The relationships are meaningful.
Coaches and volunteers often say they get just as much out of the program as the girls do.
4. The 5K is pure joy.
There’s nothing quite like watching a girl cross the finish line beaming with pride.
How Local Runners Can Get Involved
You don’t have to have coaching experience or a teaching background. You don’t even have to consider yourself “a runner.” You simply need a commitment to encouraging girls and helping them succeed.
1. Become a Girls on the Run Coach
Our volunteer coaches are the heart of the program. They lead lessons, guide weekly workouts, and support girls as they build confidence and set personal goals.
Coaches commit to:
- Two 90-minute practices per week, for 10 weeks
- Leading curriculum lessons (we train you!)
- Helping girls prepare for the end-of-season 5K
- Creating a positive, inclusive environment
Coaching is one of the most rewarding ways to make an impact—you’ll witness transformations in real time as girls grow stronger physically, socially, and emotionally.
2. Volunteer at the 5K Celebration
Our 5K events run on volunteer power. Runners can help by:
- Cheering along the course
- Assisting at water stations
- Helping at Happy Hair or cheer sign stations
- Distributing medals
- Supporting participant check-in
- Creating a fun, energetic race-day atmosphere
Volunteering at the 5K is perfect for running groups, corporate teams, families, and anyone who loves being part of a community celebration.
3. Register your 3rd-8th grader for Girls on the Run Spring 2026 Program
- Head to our website and find the “Spring 2026 Registration” section. There, you’ll see all available teams across the DFW area. www.gotrdfw.org/locations
- The season starts the week of February 9 and ends with our 5K on April 25, 2026.
Fall 2025 GOTR DFW 5K Recap: A Morning Full of Joy, Grit & Girl Power
The Fall 2025 Girls on the Run DFW 5K Celebration was one of our biggest and brightest yet. Held at Lone Star Park, the event brought together more than 1,400 participants, including girls, families, coaches, volunteers, and community members ready to cheer on the next generation of runners.
The morning kicked off with pre-race festivities, including Happy Hair, photo stations, upbeat music, warm-ups, and team chants echoing across the venue. Our vendor village brought fun giveaways, interactive activities, and community partners who were excited to celebrate the girls.
At the starting line, nerves and excitement buzzed in the air. For many girls, this was their very first 5K. For others, it was the moment they had been training for all season.
But perhaps the most memorable part of the event was watching each girl cross the finish line—some running, some walking, some hand-in-hand with teammates—but all overflowing with pride. Every medal handed out represented growth, courage, resilience, and joy. For many girls, this 5K wasn’t just a run—it was the first time they accomplished something they once thought was impossible.
Join Us for the Spring Season!
If you’re a runner looking to give back, meet great people, and support young girls, Girls on the Run offers countless ways to get involved.
Whether you coach, volunteer at the 5K, or simply cheer from the sidelines, your presence helps girls build confidence that lasts a lifetime.
Together, we can ensure that every girl—regardless of income, background, or ability—has the opportunity to discover her strength.
Ready to join the movement?
Learn more at: www.gotrdfw.org
