Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based youth development

program for girls in 3rd-8th grade, and teaches life skills through dynamic interactive lessons and running games. This spring, Girls on the Run of Montgomery County is serving 2,500 girls in schools all over the county. 

Girls sign up to participate by the season, which runs 10 weeks and culminates in a celebratory 5K running event. The goal of the program is to unleash confidence through accomplishment while establishing a lifetime appreciation of health and fitness. 

All of the organization's coaches are volunteers, who are charged with preparing and educating young girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living, and inspiring them to realize their limitless potential. Coaches do not need to be runners or have experience working with youth. Girls on the Run provides all of the training and materials necessary. 

As one of the local coaches notes, "Girls on the Run is so simple, but its positive effect is so profound. These girls are at one of the most difficult stages of their lives. They need guidance, love, and laughter. I coach to help guide girls in the right direction. In turn, I have found part of my purpose." 

In addition to seeking volunteer coaches, the group is currently recruiting volunteers for the Girls on the Run of Montgomery County 5K Fun Run--set for Sunday, May 17, 9 am, at Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda--which brings together thousands of girls from all over the county to celebrate and achieve their goal of completing a 5K. There are plenty of volunteer roles to choose from, and the organization promises that volunteers will enjoy the day as much as the girls do! Plus, all volunteers will receive a T-shirt and refreshments. Click here to learn more about this opportunity.

The Mental Health Association's Representative Payee Program is looking for volunteers to work with low-income, disabled Montgomery County residents who need help managing their federal benefits. Representative Payee clients are often homebound, disabled, forgetful, or have no family or friends who can help them manage their finances.

Following successful completion of training and background check, volunteers are assigned to a program client. Volunteers typically spend four to six hours a month working with their client to make sure that the client's bills are paid and financial obligations are met. 

Volunteers must be at least 21 years of age and be willing to make a one year commitment. General knowledge of household budgeting required.

The organization is offering two training sessions this month: Tuesday, May 12, 6:30-9 pm, and Wednesday, May 27, 1:30-4 pm. Both will be held at the Mental Health Association, 1000 Twinbrook Parkway, Rockville.

For more information or to register for one of the upcoming trainings, contact Emily Kamin at 301-424-0656 ext. 541 or email volunteer@mhamc.org.