“Courage, sacrifice, determination, commitment, toughness, heart, talents, guts. That’s what little girls are made of; the heck with sugar and spice.”

-Bethany Hamilton

I’ll be tackling my 4th marathon this year, and the 3rd one that I will be dedicating to a specific charity. My first two marathon I raised over $6,000 for PAWS Chicago as a member of TEAM PAWS, and this year, I decided to switch it up a bit and run for Girls on the Run Chicago. The organization inspires girls in 3rd-8th grade to recognize their inner strength and celebrate what makes them one of a kind. Trained coaches lead small teams through out a ten week program which includes dynamic discussions, activities, and running games. Through out the ten weeks, the girls train for a 5k and complete it as part of the program.

Growing up as an athlete, I know firsthand the impact athletics can play on a young girl’s life. Through sports, I learned about commitment, dedication, tenacity, organization, and how to feel strong and confident.  Athletics helped mold me into the person I am today and I am thrilled to be supporting a charity with values so near and dear to my heart.

I’ve wanted to get more involved in the charity besides just fundraising, and had the opportunity to attend a practice and capture these little ladies in action. I have to say, this was one of the most fun photo shoots I’ve had yet.  The energy, excitement, and sassy personalities on those little ladies just lit me up.  They were so full of life and their enthusiasm was simply contagious.  Two hours with them made my heart so full and my stomach hurt a little from laughing the whole time!

I knew I was dedicating my marathon to a great cause, but this experience really opened my eyes at how incredible this program is. If you’re interested in learning more, or helping me reach my fundraising goal for the Chicago Marathon (I’m halfway there!) you can visit my fundraising page here!