Local program empowers young girls to build confidence and stay active [Video]

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – A local program is helping young girls build confidence while keeping them active.

Much more than a running club, Girls on the Run Southcentral Alaska is designed to empower preteens to stand up for themselves and make healthy decisions. Through fun activities and fitness challenges, girls work to build skills like teamwork, leadership and self-confidence.

Board President Ginny Grabowski said studies show that girls between the ages of 8 and 14 start to lose their self-esteem, with a staggering 30% drop after the age of 8. That’s why Girls on the Run is so impactful. It focuses on more than just physical fitness.

“We work on teaching girls how to speak up for themselves, how to feel good about themselves, and how to take care of their bodies and their mental health. It’s a really fun program,” Grabowski said.

She added the skills taught through the …