SoleMates—a peer-to-peer fundraising program of Girls on the Run—refers to a community of passionate individuals who commit to train for and complete an athletic event of their choice while raising critically needed funds for Girls on the Run to serve more participants. Whether SoleMates choose to take on a triathalon, a yoga retreat, or a marathon, they all have one thing in common: passion for girl empowerment. This fall, GOTR Memphis has TWO SoleMates taking on this challenge. Check out why Savannah and Caitlin are raising money for GOTR in their own words and consider donating to their inspiring campaigns.
SMILING SAVANNAH: MRTC Road Race Series & Big River Crossing Half-Marathon
"Join me as I raise $1,310 for 13.1 miles and GOTR Memphis!
"Despite playing sports throughout middle and high school, I never thought I was a runner. I was slower than my teammates and got discouraged when I was told I wasn't fast or fit enough to make an impact. Eventually, I stopped trying to run altogether. It wasn't until 2021 when I decided to try again, this time focusing only on the running goals I set for myself. I began unlearning some of the toxic thinking that had made me feel discouraged. I realized that I didn't need to be the quickest on the course as long as I made myself proud and reached my personal goals. I completed my first 5K in 2022, and I charged into 2025 with the lofty New Year's resolution of completing my first ever Half Marathon this year...and this is one resolution I'm determined to keep!
"I work for Girls on the Run Memphis, an organization that tells 3rd-8th grade girls that you don't need to go fast--you just need to go your happy pace. GOTR uses a nationally proven curriculum involving running, walking, and other accessible movement to build girls' confidence and instill in them life skills that will set them up for success in their next chapters. From building healthy friendships to setting smart goals to talking positively to and about yourself, GOTR Memphis gives the next generation of women a place to explore their mental, physical, and emotional wellness while supported by community mentors. It's a program I wish I had when I was growing up, and I'm beyond excited to combine my personal goals with a mission in which I fully believe.
"Thank you for supporting me, Girls on the Run Memphis, and young ladies everywhere. See you at the finish line!"
DONATE TO SAVANNAH'S SOLEMATES CAMPAIGN HERE.
COURAGEOUS CAITLIN: Chicago Marathon
"My #GOTR Name is Courageous Catie/Caitlin, and if you really knew me, you’d know I’m passionate about helping girls find their voices, be good friends, resolve conflict, serve their communities and grow into incredible world-changing women. Want to join me in this?
"1) Connect with your local Girls on the Run Council to see how you can get involved-whether it’s coaching, volunteering, or donating. You DONT have to be a runner, you just have to care about the girls in your community. If you’re in Memphis, check out @gotrmemphis !
"2) Help me help girls in Chicago as I run the Chicago Marathon for Girls on the Run! I’m fundraising to help them bring the programming to more girls, learn how we can bring the Sole Mates tool to our council, and have a SPARKLY good time at the Chicago Marathon."
DONATE TO CAITLIN'S SOLEMATES CAMPAIGN HERE.