Feet-ured Partner: Girls on the Run
At the Eau Claire Marathon, we believe running is about so much more than miles. It is about confidence, connection, and community. That is why we are so proud to highlight one of our incredible ECM Feet-ured Partners, Girls on the Run Chippewa Valley.
Girls on the Run (GOTR) is a national nonprofit organization that inspires girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident through a proven curriculum that blends physical activity, social-emotional learning, and positive mentorship. Locally, the Chippewa Valley council serves around 450 girls each year, providing life-changing programming that culminates in a powerful and celebratory 5K experience.
As they shared:
“We are grateful for our ongoing relationship with the Eau Claire Marathon team, including our presence at the race expo and 5K cheer stations. As we continue to strengthen this partnership, we are excited about opportunities that enhance visibility for GOTR Chippewa Valley, support our efforts to recruit coaches and engage families, and deepen our shared commitment to empowering young girls in our community.”
The Power of a First 5K
Make it stand out
If you have ever run your first 5K, you know the feeling. That mix of nerves, excitement, and pride as you cross the finish line for the very first time. For Girls on the Run participants, that moment is truly transformative.
The GOTR 5K is not just a race. It is the celebration of everything these girls have worked toward throughout the season. It represents confidence built, friendships formed, and challenges overcome.
One parent shared it best:
“My child loved the Girls on the Run 5K. They felt more confident in themself after the 5K because they knew they could accomplish something difficult. I believe the program made them feel more empowered and helped raise their self-esteem.”
On May 9, 2026, the community will come together at Carson Park in Eau Claire for the Girls on the Run 20th Anniversary 5K Celebration. Participants will run, walk, or roll through the beautiful park and surrounding bike trails, surrounded by teammates, families, and supporters.
This is more than a finish line. It is a moment where every participant is celebrated for exactly who they are and how far they have come.
👉 Register and experience the joy: https://www.gotrchippewavalley.org/3rd-5th-grade-program-details
Be Part of the Magic: Volunteer
Make it stand out
Every unforgettable race day needs an incredible team behind the scenes. The Girls on the Run 5K is powered by volunteers who bring energy, encouragement, and support to every step of the event.
Whether you are handing out water, checking in participants, cheering along the course, or helping with cleanup, you play a direct role in creating a meaningful experience for every girl crossing that finish line.
Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are welcome, and it is one of the most rewarding ways to give back to the community.
👉 Learn more and sign up: https://www.gotrchippewavalley.org/5k
Run with Purpose: SoleMates Program
Looking to take your running to the next level? The GOTR SoleMates program is an incredible way to combine training with impact.
SoleMates are adult runners who commit to fundraising for Girls on the Run while training for a race like the Eau Claire Marathon. Their efforts directly support scholarships for participants and help sustain the program for future seasons.
Through continued partnership, the Eau Claire Marathon is excited to help grow this program by increasing visibility, supporting participants, and connecting more runners to this meaningful cause.
Why This Partnership Matters
The Eau Claire Marathon and Girls on the Run share a common mission: using movement to change lives. Whether it is a young girl completing her first 5K or a runner crossing the marathon finish line, these moments build confidence that lasts far beyond race day.
When you support Girls on the Run, you are investing in the next generation of strong, confident, and empowered young women
