It wasn’t until later in my teenage years that I began to recognize my own abilities and confidence as a girl; and I wish I would've discovered them sooner. The idea of having guts, toughness, physical strength, etc. always applied to boys when I was growing up. It's important that young girls should learn as early as possible what they are capable of for their own success and protection. Organizations like Girls on the Run Hudson Valley help make that possible by giving young girls the opportunity to build confidence, discover their strengths, and learn that their voices and abilities matter. Fitness has given me some of the greatest confidence I have ever experienced in my life, especially mentally. It taught me resilience, discipline, and belief in myself. I resonate with a program like Girls on the Run because it gives girls the chance to discover that same sense of strength and confidence that I wish I had acquired more early in my life; while also providing an accessible and supportive space for those looking for community, encouragement, and something to be passionate about. My past limiting beliefs would think it was a shot in the dark to be running a marathon; or running at all for that matter. Running the TCS New York City Marathon with this organization would be the epitome of a full circle moment. By supporting this fundraiser, you are helping girls have the opportunity to have better accessibility to discover their potential, build confidence, and experience the empowerment that movement and community can provide!
