Jan 2009
Girls on the Run of Austin Newsletter
header with logo & race photo
In This Issue
First Semester Success
New Year, New Schools
New Sponsors
First Semester Ends with Jingle Bell 5K
Girls on the Run of Austin and six elementary school girls completed their inaugural 5K on Dec. 14th - the Jingle Bell Run.  Girls in 3rd through 5th grades at Bridge Point Elementary and Eanes Elementary trained for 12 weeks as participants in Austin's newest "girl power" non-profit program.
 
During the 5K each girl ran with a coach or volunteer who encouraged them along the way. Parents, family and school faculty were also there for added support.
 
Girls collected charms at each mile, and after the race they enjoyed healthy cupcakes from Hill Country Cupcake during the GOTR award ceremony. Every girl received Certificates of Completion, a keepsake inspiration card from Skeese Greets, and an award ribbon.
 
GOTR is an after-school program that uses the power of running to help prepare pre-teen girls for a lifetime of self-respect, positive choices and healthy living. In each session, girls are guided by trained volunteer coaches, and learn about the power of positive self-image.
 
Congratulations, Girls!

We had an exciting first semester for Girls on the Run of Austin, and we are ready to start 2009 with new schools, more girls, and we have never been more motivated. Getting to know these wonderful and inspiring young girls from last semester and see them blossom has been a fantastic experience. We can't wait to get started again in just a few short weeks. 
 
If you've been thinking of getting involved and simply want to learn more & meet other volunteers/teachers/parents, join us:
 
Tuesday, January 27
4:30-7:00 PM
Crystal Nails/Esno Nails
5501 N. Lamar, C119
Austin, TX 78751
 
Get a mani/pedi, or just enjoy drinks & appetizers while getting to know some amazing people.
 
Thanks to everyone for your continued support and interest.

Sincerely,
 
Shorey Russell
Girls on the Run of Austin
 
New Year, New Schools!
Allison ElementaryStarting Feb. 9th, GOTR of Austin will be again offering programs at Bridge Point Elementary, and starting a new program at Allison Elementary. In addition, we have also added Becker Elementary to our growing list of schools, with a start date of Feb. 23rd. The girls will be participating in the Schlotsky's Bun Run on May 3rd to end the season.
 
Visit our website for more details on these locations, as well as contact information and coaching details.
 
Interested in being a coach? Contact Carrie Peasinger at 512-608-GOTR or carrie@gotraustin.org.
New Sponsors
GOTR of Austin is pleased to announce the addition of three new sponsors:
  • Holiday GoLightly - Group travel planning for girlfriend getaways. Featured today is a Vail Ski Getaway.
  • Hill Country Cupcake - Delicious all-natural, organic cupcakes in all your favorite flavors. Have a special request? HCC also offers: low-fat, fat-free, gluten-free, vegan, and themed cupcakes. Free delivery. Just in time for Valentine's Day.
  • Build-A-Sign - High-quality banners & signs for any event or occasion. Fast quotes & approvals online.

Fundraising is again in full-swing! Think your business might be interested in sponsoring Girls on the Run? Contact Shorey Russell at 512-417-9459, shorey@gotraustin.org.

Did You Know?
75% of girls, ages 8-9 years said they liked their looks. That figure dropped to 56% by the time the girls reached 12-13 years of age. (NYU Child Studies Center). And by age 9, 50% of girls report being on a diet. (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders).
 
GOTR of Austin helps girls feel good about themselves while learning to be healthy for a lifetime.
 
Donations:
Girls on the Run of Austin
PO Box 200594
Austin, TX 78720
We know our volunteers are busy athletes themselves, and there's no better way to put all that physical training to the test: The Texas Tri Series! Register by March 1st and receive a $10 discount on registration fees. Complete or volunteer for at least 4 events & you'll get an invite to the Finisher Party. The race series is put on by our sponsors: Jack & Adam's Bicycles, Skeese Greets & High Five Events.