Each season, people from all walks of life in the Bay Area step into Girls on the Run coaching opportunities. Many begin with a simple desire to give back and mentor youth. However, they soon discover the experience is more transformative than imagined.
Coaching a Girls on the Run team offers volunteers a chance to grow alongside participants, build meaningful relationships, and make a lasting impact in communities. From the first practice to the celebratory 5K, coaches witness transformation in participants and within themselves.
Read more to find out how becoming a GOTR coach can enrich your life.
and Enhances Life Skills
Girls on the Run coaches help participants develop confidence and life skills. Not only does the program’s research-based curriculum provide meaningful lessons to its participants, but it also gives adults space to lead with empathy, reflect with intention, and strengthen their voices.
Seventy-four percent of current coaches say volunteering boosts their confidence, and 84% say it enhances their life skills. As a result, feeling personally empowered by this experience motivates 62% of coaches to continue coaching. Additionally, teacher coaches also see professional benefits, with 75% applying lessons learned through coaching in their classrooms. This means the impact of Girls on the Run extends far beyond the program itself.
Coaching Girls on the Run Strengthens Community Connections
Girls on the Run brings together coaches, participants, families, and schools, creating a supportive environment where everyone belongs. As a result, coaching teams often describe themselves as more than just volunteers; they become a caring network of friends and mentors.
Ninety-eight percent of coaches say they form positive relationships with the participants on their team, and importantly, 95% believe their coaching makes a difference in participants’ lives. Moreover, strong connections with co-coaches are another highlight. Sixty-two percent of returning GOTR coaches name these bonds as a key reason to coach again.
Caregiver coaches say the program helps them grow closer to their children, with 84% reporting that coaching GOTR led to important conversations at home. Similarly, teacher coaches see similar benefits at school, with 92% saying coaching improves their relationships with students.
From Bay Area schools and families to coaches and participants, coaching GOTR fosters a supportive environment where everyone feels they belong.
Coaching Girls on the Run Offers Joy and Purpose
For many, volunteering with Girls on the Run becomes the highlight of their week. Practice days bring energy, laughter, reflection, and a sense of purpose. Consequently, many coaches say it quickly becomes one of the most rewarding parts of their routine.
Among current coaches, increased physical activity ranks among current coaches as the third-highest personal impact reported. Beyond this, many say coaching helps them reset, recharge, and reconnect with what matters most. For example, it’s a joyful break from their busy routines, making it one of the most rewarding youth development programs to be part of.
This joy and fulfillment also inspire coaches to return. In spring 2025, 89% said they plan to coach again. Many say the experience brings joy, growth, and connections that keep them returning each season.
Interested in becoming a role model for Bay Area Students?
The Fall season starts on September 15 so there's no better time to sign up and witness how coaching can bring fullfillment and enrichment in your life.
Explore volunteer coach opportunities with Girls on the Run of the Bay Area today!