5k held in Springfield to benefit Girls on the Run

SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - Over 3,000 people came out to support youth development in Springfield over the weekend.

Girls on the Run hosted its 5k event on Sunday, but there was a lot more than just running going on. The run started at 10:30 a.m. and was open to the public, but the event started an hour earlier with some activities and group warmups.

There was also a food drive that took place at the same time, with all non-perishables going to local food pantries. “The 5k brings together all 770 of our girls from all over western Mass. and they can run they can walk, but it’s just about completing it and celebrating,” said Alison Berman, council director for Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts.

Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based positive youth development program. It uses fun running games and dynamic discussions to teach life skills to girls between third and eighth grade. During the eight-week program, girls participate in lessons to help confidence, build connections, and encourage community service. “As we see them start to cross the finish line, just imagine that they could be sitting at home, they could be watching TV, playing on their phones, but instead, they’re choosing to come out be with their friends, learn something, challenge themselves, and I just think there’s nothing better than seeing them do that,” said Meredith Southergill, coach at Deerfield Elementary School.

All proceeds from the event will benefit Girls on the Run of Western Massachusetts.