Milestones for Girls on the Run Central Florida

Photos (L to R): More than 2,000 participants line up and start the UnitedHealthcare Girls on the Run 5K Central Florida. Pre-race festivities included an expo with face and hair painting and games for prizes. Families, supporters and kids cheer on runners and celebrate 5K finishes.

More than 800 third through eighth grade girls from 52 Orange, Osceola, Lake, Seminole and Brevard County elementary and middle schools “graduated” from their after-school 5K training and life skills program at the recent UnitedHealthcare Girls on the Run 5K race.

Held on Dec. 8 at Eagle Nest Park in Orlando, this year’s race also celebrated the 10thAnniversary for the Girls on the Run program. The 800+ girls were joined by more than 1200 family members, runners and walkers and Girls on the Run Central Florida volunteer coaches. In total, the race drew a record turnout of more than 2,000 participants, raising $20,000 for Girls on the Run Central Florida.

In addition to serving at the presenting sponsor for the 5K Race, UnitedHealthcare’s support also provided funding for more than 45 training program scholarships. Each year, nearly 50 percent of all participants receive some level of financial support, based on financial need. In total, more than $46,700 in scholarships was awarded to 380 girls for the Fall Girls on the Run Central after-school training and life skills program, enabling every girl who wants to run and participate can.

“UnitedHealthcare’s support and funding was instrumental in allowing us to open the race to the general public this year and help us celebrate the 10thAnniversary for Girls on the Run,” said Karen Allen, executive director for Girls on the Run Central Florida. “Their financial support also allowed many lower income schools and girls to participate in what has proven to be a life-changing and enhancing experience for all the girls and their coaches,” Allen added.

“UnitedHealthcare is honored to be a Girls on the Run Central Florida partner,” said Greg Reidy, CEO for UnitedHealthcare Florida. “The after-school program’s proven long-lasting benefits to participants at a critical time in their lives is invaluable and an important part of our mission to support and help people of all ages lead healthier, more productive lives.”

The race and its proceeds commemorate and help fund the Girls on the Run training program in Central Florida, which has grown from 2 participating schools in 2008 to 52 schools in Orange, Osceola, Lake, Seminole and BrevardCounties for the December 2018 program.