Junior League of Richmond grants $10k to Girls on the Run Greater Richmond

Henrico-based Junior League of Richmond recently made a $10,000 grant to Girls on the Run Greater Richmond to support the expansion of its evidence-based youth development program to additional schools in Henrico, Richmond and Chesterfield, serving about 100 more girls across the region. 

The grant reflects the Junior League of Richmond’s commitment to advancing opportunities for girls and young women through programs that foster confidence, leadership, and healthy lifestyles, according to the organization.

Girls on the Run Greater Richmond's curriculum combines physical activity with life skills development, helping empower participants to build self-esteem, strengthen peer connections, and develop decision-making skills.  The organization offers a physical activity-based youth development program for girls in grades 3 through 8. Its research-based curriculum combines running with lessons that build social-emotional skills, confidence, and resilience to help girls thrive. 

JLR has been a partner to Girls on the Run Greater Richmond for four years, supporting its work through volunteer efforts.  

“We are thrilled to support Girls on the Run Greater Richmond to expand their reach and deepen their impact,” said Dagny Barone, president of the Junior League of Richmond. “This grant represents more than financial support — it’s an investment in mentorship, health, and the future success of young girls in our community.”

The funding supports program expansion into schools that may not otherwise have access to enrichment opportunities like Girls on the Run. The program is offered on a sliding scale, with many signing on at no cost to participants. 

“Through this grant, we are investing in the potential of young girls in our community and helping to create pathways for confidence and leadership at an early age,” said Tasha Moore, executive director of the  Junior League of Richmond. “Girls on the Run Greater Richmond is a proven program that aligns closely with the JLR’s interest in promoting the well-being of girls and women.”

Girls on the Run Greater Richmond participants engage in lessons focused on teamwork, decision-making, emotional well being, and healthy relationship building, culminating in a celebratory 5K event. The grant funding will help ensure that 100 girls can participate in Girls on the Run regardless of financial circumstances.

Ninety-five percent of parents and caregivers said their child was confident after participating in the program this spring.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Junior League of Richmond for their generous support and ongoing volunteer engagement,” said Catherine Estevez, executive director of Girls on the Run Greater Richmond. “Because of this investment, more girls had access to a program that equips them with valuable social, emotional, and physical skills while building confidence that extends far beyond the season.”

The Junior League of Richmond is celebrating its centennial year. It is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training.