Back in the fall of 2013, when the Girls on the Run Greater Richmond council was just getting started, Richmond Public Schools hosted one of the very first teams.
Seven girls made up the team at William Fox Elementary School, and though their group may have been small, they ignited a spark in the city of Richmond—a spark that has only become stronger over the years to serve hundreds of students across every council district. During the 2023-2024 school year alone, our council served 172 girls from twelve Richmond Public Schools like Bellevue Elementary, Henry L. Marsh Elementary, and St. Andrew’s School. And after this upcoming fall season, William Fox will have hosted the program a remarkable fifteen times!
Our GOTR council has its roots in Richmond Public Schools, and we’re grateful to the many educators, administrators, and community members who have made our growth possible across the region (including our recently announced expansion into Colonial Heights!). And much like our programs teach girls to unleash their limitless potential, we too are dreaming bigger about the future of GOTR in Richmond. That is why we’re thrilled to announce that our council has been awarded $16,600 through the inaugural Heart of Richmond Awards!
A new initiative led by Mayor Stoney’s administration, the Heart of Richmond Awards were designed to uplift and support local organizations making a difference in the community, and who embody the heart and compassion of the city. This funding will allow us to expand our reach in the city and help ensure that cost is not a barrier for girls and their families benefiting from the joy, confidence, and healthy habits Girls on the Run offers.
We are so grateful to Mayor Stoney, the City of Richmond Office of Human Services, and the Heart of Richmond Awards for keeping the GOTR spark alive and well in Richmond. We’re honored to be recognized alongside these inspiring and impactful organizations:
Blessing Warriors RVA
Children’s Museum of Richmond
Fountain Fund
Gallery 5
HARPS Foundation
Little Hands Virginia
Period Patch, Inc.
Richmond Community ToolBank
RVA Rapid Transit
The Uhuru Foundation
Urban Hope
This award represents more than just financial support—it’s a testament to the importance of empowering young girls in our community.
We look forward to serving more Richmond girls like Jordan, whose mother recently reflected on her Girls on the Run experience: “Jordan looked forward to the program every week. She felt like she belonged and learned to use her voice and speak her truth.”
The Heart of Richmond Awards are a powerful reminder that when we come together, we can create a brighter future for girls and for Richmond as a whole. Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way—our success is truly a community effort!
And speaking of, we invite you to get involved in our upcoming fall season, which kicks off the week of September 16! There are opportunities for everyone, including:
We’re excited for you to join us as we celebrate compassion, health, and joy in a thriving Richmond community!