Girls on the Run International recognizes our board member, Rita Gates!
Girls on the Run of UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital is thrilled to announce that Rita Gates, local volunteer with the girl empowerment nonprofit organization have been awarded with the Remarkable Volunteer Award by its national headquarters, Girls on the Run International. The annual Remarkable Volunteer Awards is a national volunteer recognition program designed to shine a light on the inspirational and transformative impact volunteers have on Girls on the Run participants and communities.
Rita Gates was nominated as a Remarkable Volunteer in the council supporter category for her work as an Advisory Board Member to our affiliate council. Rita’s remarkable commitment to the values of Girls on the Run and the intentional work she does to help us in our mission here in Western Pennsylvania. Rita is an active and engaged Advisory Board Member. In March, Rita, along with one of her former GOTR girls, represented our council on a local station segment for International Women’s Day, sharing information about our programs and their value. We believe that Rita embodies the core values of Girls on the Run and know that our council is better for her involvement and support.
“Volunteers are the heart of the Girls on the Run program. We simply could not deliver our life changing program without their kindness, generosity and commitment!” says Glenn Polk of Girls on the Run of UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital “Whether it is through coaching, volunteering at 5K events, fundraising and more, volunteers are essential to inspiring girls in Western Pennsylvania to achieve goals, use their voices and practice healthy habits. Last year, Girls on the Run of UPMC Magee Womens Hospital was fortunate to have more than 500 volunteers in 2022, and this year, we are so proud to recognize Rita Gates with this meaningful award.”
Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based positive youth development program that helps girls in 3rd through 8th recognize their inner strength, increase their level of physical activity, imagine their possibilities, and confidently stand up for themselves and others through the innovative integration of fun physical activities, life-skills lessons, and impactful community projects. Girls on the Run believes that girls are born with potential, power, and purpose. The research-based curriculum led by trained volunteer coaches explores core topics relevant to girls including understanding emotions, fostering friendships, expressing empathy, and standing up for what’s right. The coaches and curriculum create a sense of belonging for all participants and meet the vital needs of girls today. The program culminates in a community impact project and a celebratory 5K.
To learn more about Girls on the Run visit GOTRMagee.org