Anyone else think Girls on the Run is a rip-off?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My question is why is there only Girls on the Run and no Boys on the Run or Kids on the Run? Now our schools has a class for Girls interested in math and science careers. Why this specific focus on girls? All the studies I read say that boys have the most health issues growing up and fall the most behind in schools, but the only segregated programs I see cater to girls instead. Not that it is a bad program, but I don't see the need for all this segregation or at least would like to see a balance. Where are the classes or opportunities to help boys get interested in teaching, learn to cook, learning drawing, dancing, etc.?

There is - it's called Run Fit Kids, it's co-ed, and it's run by a well-known local athlete. Much cheaper than GOTR, too.

[Anonymous]

It’s a conflict of interest to have teachers leading the program, it muddies the water between teacher and coach and confidant.
It should be an activity away from ‘School’ behaviors and attitudes, the forum leaders should be as neutral and objective as possible, and bad ‘eggs’ should be asked (told) to leave if not able to appropriately participate.
Children benefit from rule and standards of acceptable behavior and accountability. Even girls with-in the cliques suffer when peer/mob attitudes are not met and discussed with kind authority.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don't understand why this is the only after school program my child's elementary school offers. A program only for girls. It's rediculous.

So the way it works for GOTR is a parent volunteers to lead the program and you have a program.
Therefore, if you want a different program offered, you need to take the lead and volunteer to lead it.

+1 Most after-school programs are organized by PTAs or by parent volunteers. If your school doesn't have something for boys, then start one! You can be the change you want to see in the world. I learned that from GOTR.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My question is why is there only Girls on the Run and no Boys on the Run or Kids on the Run? Now our schools has a class for Girls interested in math and science careers. Why this specific focus on girls? All the studies I read say that boys have the most health issues growing up and fall the most behind in schools, but the only segregated programs I see cater to girls instead. Not that it is a bad program, but I don't see the need for all this segregation or at least would like to see a balance. Where are the classes or opportunities to help boys get interested in teaching, learn to cook, learning drawing, dancing, etc.?

There is - it's called Run Fit Kids, it's co-ed, and it's run by a well-known local athlete. Much cheaper than GOTR, too.

There's also Let Me Run which is a boys only group.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don't understand why this is the only after school program my child's elementary school offers. A program only for girls. It's rediculous.

So the way it works for GOTR is a parent volunteers to lead the program and you have a program.
Therefore, if you want a different program offered, you need to take the lead and volunteer to lead it.

+1 Most after-school programs are organized by PTAs or by parent volunteers. If your school doesn't have something for boys, then start one! You can be the change you want to see in the world. I learned that from GOTR.

+1000
Here's an option you are welcome and encouraged to lead at your school for boys:
https://www.heroboys.org/

[Anonymous]

I don’t understand the need for running groups at such a young age. I just run with my DC and don’t have to worry about another drop off/pick up—we’re overscheduled enough.

And I agree with PPs who suggest there is no equity or inclusion in GOTR. This group should not be supported by schools.

[Anonymous]

hi

[Anonymous]

hi

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Rest assured that no one at Girls on the Run is getting rich. I've been affiliated with the program for over 5 yrs and can say unequivocally that it's amazing. What you're getting for that price is not about a t-shirt and water bottle. The curriculum is truly amazing with a focus on the physical, mental, emotional and soul/spiritual development of the girl. No matter what their socio-economic or racial or ethnic background, girls share similar issues as they begin to approach adolescence. Gossiping, bullying, societal focus on appearance, disordered eating. These are all issues that touch our girls in some way. Girls on the Run helps give them some of the thoughts and critical thinking skills necessary to push back against what the world around them is telling them.

As for the cost, it covers a lot of things. Some of it goes to running the nonprofit itself. Yes, when you have an office you have to pay your staff, pay rent and overhead. Putting on a race is not cheap - paying for permits, police coverage, things like barriers and water and finish line snacks. I know it sounds crazy, but that's not cheap. In addition, much of the cost goes to supporting the participation of underprivileged girls. The full fee for the program is $165, but girls from families who qualify for FARMS can participate at a lower rate. GOTR has a commitment to not turning away any girl for financial reasons.

Guidestar is a great resource for learning more about the financials of nonprofits. You have to register to get full access to 990s and other data, but it's there if you want to look at where the money is going: http://www2.guidestar.org/organizations/54-2026885/girls-run-nova.aspx

I've seen girls blossom through Girls on the Run and would truly encourage you to have your daughter participate.

So the rich parents have to pay for the poor kids? That’s insane! Never heard of a car wash?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Rest assured that no one at Girls on the Run is getting rich. I've been affiliated with the program for over 5 yrs and can say unequivocally that it's amazing. What you're getting for that price is not about a t-shirt and water bottle. The curriculum is truly amazing with a focus on the physical, mental, emotional and soul/spiritual development of the girl. No matter what their socio-economic or racial or ethnic background, girls share similar issues as they begin to approach adolescence. Gossiping, bullying, societal focus on appearance, disordered eating. These are all issues that touch our girls in some way. Girls on the Run helps give them some of the thoughts and critical thinking skills necessary to push back against what the world around them is telling them.

As for the cost, it covers a lot of things. Some of it goes to running the nonprofit itself. Yes, when you have an office you have to pay your staff, pay rent and overhead. Putting on a race is not cheap - paying for permits, police coverage, things like barriers and water and finish line snacks. I know it sounds crazy, but that's not cheap. In addition, much of the cost goes to supporting the participation of underprivileged girls. The full fee for the program is $165, but girls from families who qualify for FARMS can participate at a lower rate. GOTR has a commitment to not turning away any girl for financial reasons.

Guidestar is a great resource for learning more about the financials of nonprofits. You have to register to get full access to 990s and other data, but it's there if you want to look at where the money is going: http://www2.guidestar.org/organizations/54-2026885/girls-run-nova.aspx

I've seen girls blossom through Girls on the Run and would truly encourage you to have your daughter participate.

So the rich parents have to pay for the poor kids? That’s insane! Never heard of a car wash?

DP: No one *has* to pay anything--don't join if you don't like the organization. It's not required and their fees don't seem out of line with many other programs. Plenty of organizations have progressive charges depending on income and many families like to participate in organizations that have progressive pricing because they are not then exclusive but rather providing a broader benefit. If that's not you, don't join.

[Anonymous]

Not at all. It was worth every penny for my DD. Outside, with other girls, physically active, talking about health, hanging out with nice teachers. I miss those days.

[Anonymous]

After 12 years, this thread has Girls on the Run its course.

[Anonymous]

I agree with op- I think the cost is excessive- and the financial questions does not factor in family size only gross income….

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I don’t understand the need for running groups at such a young age. I just run with my DC and don’t have to worry about another drop off/pick up—we’re overscheduled enough.

And I agree with PPs who suggest there is no equity or inclusion in GOTR. This group should not be supported by schools.

I am really glad my kids' school has a running team because I physically can't run and they're too young to run alone.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My question is why is there only Girls on the Run and no Boys on the Run or Kids on the Run? Now our schools has a class for Girls interested in math and science careers. Why this specific focus on girls? All the studies I read say that boys have the most health issues growing up and fall the most behind in schools, but the only segregated programs I see cater to girls instead. Not that it is a bad program, but I don't see the need for all this segregation or at least would like to see a balance. Where are the classes or opportunities to help boys get interested in teaching, learn to cook, learning drawing, dancing, etc.?

Can you take your misogyny elsewhere?

We get it, you yearn for the not so distant past when girls weren’t allowed in higher education. You’ll find solidarity in Truth Social, please leave the rest of us alone.