On Giving Tuesday, Girls on the Run St. Louis supporters gathered to celebrate the incredible collective work we accomplished together in 2023. The Board of Directors Vice Chair, Gabriela Ramirez-Arellano, kicked off the event with inspiring words regarding her connection to the Girls on the Run St. Louis mission:

My name is Gabriela Ramirez-Arellano and I am grateful for the opportunity to support Girls on the Run and to share with you tonight some of the reasons it holds profound significance for me. I stand before you as someone who never had these opportunities growing up and someone who is grateful to have personally experienced the transformative power of this organization as an adult and during a time of immense personal challenge.

I signed up to be a Girls on the Run solemate in December of 2019, raising money on behalf of the organization and fulfilling a bucket list item of running a marathon.  I never imagined how important that one decision would be for me in 2020 and 2021 as I trained to run Chicago and faced the heart-wrenching loss of both my son and daughter. In the midst of that grief, running and training became a beacon of light, guiding me through the darkest days. I turned to running as a way to cope, as a means of finding solace and strength and trading the physical pain for the heartache. Having that goal of finishing what I started became my lifeline and support system.

I vividly remember the days when lacing up my running shoes felt like an insurmountable task. Yet, I quickly realized that every step forward, no matter how small, was a victory. Over and over I saw that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, resilience is born from the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other.

Witnessing firsthand the impact of Girls on the Run St. Louis during those challenging times made me deeply appreciate the organization's mission. It's not just about physical activity; it's about nurturing the spirit, building resilience, and fostering a sense of community.

I recently had the opportunity to join a team of Girls on the Run St. Louis participants for a practice 5k, and the experience was nothing short of magical. These girls, each facing their unique challenges, displayed determination and it underscored the importance of supporting an organization that empowers young girls to overcome obstacles and believe in their limitless potential. In their star power.

As we come together to back Girls on the Run St. Louis, let's remember that we are not just investing in a program; we are investing in the resilience of young hearts and the building of a community that uplifts one another. 

In my journey with Girls on the Run St. Louis, I discovered the healing power of running and the strength that comes from supporting and being supported. I ask you to consider how you can be a part of this incredible journey. Whether through your generous contributions or by volunteering your time, you have the opportunity to make a profound impact on the lives of these young girls.

Thank you for being here, for listening to my story, and for considering how you can be a force for positive change through Girls on the Run St. Louis. Together, let's create a future where every girl, no matter her circumstances, has the support she needs to cross her own finish line with resilience, courage, and boundless hope.