Start a Site Steps

How can I start a Girls on the Run of Central Maryland site in my school or community center?

Site Application-doc or Site Application-pdf

Step 1-Identify a location to host the program.

Our programs run twice a week for 10 weeks.  We have a spring program and a fall program season.  Most of our programs are run at elementary and middle schools.  The program location is responsible for providing:

  • A contact person at the site to coordinate with GOTR of Central Maryland. This person can be a site employee or a parent.
  • The site coordinator will be responsible for distributing registration and program information. GOTR provides all marketing and registration materials.
  • A safe place for running. Note: This does not have to be a track, a field is acceptable. However, it is necessary to measure off part of that area on occasions when lessons require running at certain distances, (e.g. 1 mile, 3k)
  • A rain site (gym, covered outdoor area, hallway, etc.) For HCPS we provide the permit needed.
  • Provide at least two coaches to be trained by GOTR. We provide the training, curriculum materials, background checks and CPR/First Aid certification for all coaches.  It is mandatory that ALL head coaches be trained and CPR/First Aid certified.
  • Complete a site application and contract (Girls on the Run provides general liability insurance for all of our program locations).

Step 2 – Attend Coach’s Training

All of our volunteer coaches take part in a GOTR training session before the program begins. The training seminar is based upon a well-developed and researched curriculum used successfully by local and national GOTR® programs.

We require a minimum of two coaches at each site and a ratio of 1 coach to every 8 girls.  Sites are responsible for recruiting a minimum of 2 volunteers and coordinating for them to attend a coach’s training and CPR/first aid course prior to the start of the season.  Both are required for head coaches and recommended for assistant coaches.

Each  head coach must:

  • Complete a volunteer application-doc or volunteer application-pdf
  • Attend a 3 hour Coaches’ Training.  A background check will be required of all Coaches along with CPR/first aid certification
  • Attend a pre/mid/post season Coaches’ Meetings.
  • Meet organizational and reporting deadlines throughout the season.
  • Prepare for and supervise all lessons in a manner consistent with the GOTR International philosophy and curriculum
  • Run with the girls in the end of season 5k race/walk

All other coaches:

Step 3 – Complete all paperwork

Every program site is provided with a letter of agreement, which must be signed by the site coordinator and site administrator prior to registration. The GOTR Site Coordinator is responsible for:

  • Signing and returning the Letter of Agreement to the GOTR- Central Maryland office prior to the deadline
  • Distributing the marketing materials and registration brochures to 3rd- 5th or 6th – 8th grade girls

Step 4 – Have a GREAT program!

The program culminates with the running of a 5K (3.1 mile) running event. GOTR®-Central Maryland encourages as much site participation in this event as possible. All are welcome to come out and walk, run, and cheer your girls on!