On Thanksgiving morning, I'm running the 2025 Applied Materials Silicon Valley Turkey Trot as a SoleMate and fundraising for Girls on the Run Silicon Valley.
As a past GOTR coach, SoleMate charity runner, 5K and outreach committee member, Associate/Young Professionals Board Member, and now Executive Director of GOTRSV, I have witnessed the profound impact our programs have on the girls and communities we serve.
I remember my first week as a first-time coach in 2020. I had the privilege and exciting opportunity to coach at my former elementary school. In the second week of practice, during the workout, one of our 4th-grade girls completed a full mile (4 laps around the track). I'll never forget how she beamed with absolute joy and pride, and shouted, "I just did a mile! I never knew I could do that!"
That is what GOTR is all about. It wasn't about how fast she completed the mile, it was the confidence she gained through accomplishment. It was the moment she learned she was capable of something that once seemed out of reach.
This is my "why." Every girl deserves the opportunity to feel strong in her body, confident in her mind, and supported in her community. Girls on the Run provides that space, where girls can dream big and gain the skills to reach their full potential.
This holiday season, I'm aiming to raise $500 to support our programs and ensure that all girls have access to participate, regardless of their financial circumstances. Whether $10 or $100, your donation of any amount is appreciated beyond measure.
Thank you for supporting my "Gratitude in Motion" fundraiser. If you are interested in running with me on Thanksgiving morning and would like to register for our SoleMates team, visit www.gotrsv.org/solemates.
