Girls on the Run of the Wood River Valley recently announced the addition of program director Mary Fauth. Fauth was previously a coach and volunteer for Girls on the Run, a nationally recognized character building program for third- to fifth-grade girls.
"Parents of girls in these formative years are really so very lucky to have a program such as Girls on the Run available in our valley, and I'm excited to be a part of it all," Fauth said. "Being a first-hand witness to the encouraging and positive environment Girls on the Run offers, I'm eager not only to help make it happen, but also to have my own daughter benefit from the individuality and healthy living encouraged by program."
Founded in the Wood River Valley by Executive Director Shari Kunz in 2002, the Girls on the Run program offers fall and spring sessions each year, culminating with a 5-kilometer run held in the spring that is open to the community.
"With the help of amazing coaches, a strong board, sponsors and supporters who believe in our mission, the program now has its roots as a valuable youth asset within our community," Kunz said. "Last spring, I began to know it was time to share my mantel and give Girls on the Run its wings and freedom to grow. Like all things with this program, that unexplainable power brought the right person at the right time."
Fauth is a 14-year resident of the Wood River Valley who previously worked as a volunteer with Girls on the Run and Hailey Chamber of Commerce. She also has previously held positions with SunValleyOnline and the Sun Valley/Ketchum Chamber & Visitor's Bureau.
A 501c3 nonprofit organization, Girls on the Run of the Wood River Valley is an after-school program that uses interactive activities such as running, playing games, and discussing important issues, participants learn how to build self-esteem and improve emotional and physical health. During the six-week program, girls are empowered with a greater self-awareness, a sense of achievement and a foundation in team building to help them become strong, contented and self-confident young women.
Interested women who might want to coach or be a running buddy should call phone 788-7863 or mary@girlsontherunwrv.org.
To register your child for the upcoming session beginning Sept. 10, go to www.active.com.