Enrollment is now open for a new Family Crisis Center (FCC) program designed to build self-confidence, while enhancing the physical and mental health of girls in grades 3-6.
Previously, the fee was to be $25. But thanks to anonymous donors, there is no charge.
The program is called “Girls on the Run,” which focuses on pre-teens and teens “as they navigate social-media demands, bullying and mental-health concerns,” said Sandra McMullen FCC school and community advocate. “We want to provide this safe space for girls to interact with one another outside of school.
“Each girl is paired with a volunteer mentor who provides support and encouragement along the way. Anyone interested in volunteering is encouraged to contact us.”
Sessions begin Sept. 21 and the celebratory 5K run will be in November at Wichita. Classes meet from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays for eight weeks at The Loft in Grace Community Church, 210 McKinley, Great Bend.
The first 45 minutes of the class include a presentation on various topics and the last half of the session involves physical activity. The goal is to enroll from 12 to 20 girls.
“All levels of physical fitness will be accommodated,” McMullen noted. “You don’t have to be a regular runner; the only person you are competing with is yourself as you build confidence and strength.”
Class themes include: understanding oneself; building healthy relationships; community and teamwork; and goal setting for physical health.
In addition to the mentors, several FCC team leaders have been lined up to offer further support.
“Girls on the Run is especially helpful for those who want to discover what they are capable of,” McMullen commented. “It also is a way to make new friends and grow spiritually. It has never been about looking good; it is about feeling good.
“Also, this program can help someone prepare for sports teams in middle school or high school, if they are interested.”
Girls on the Run is an international non-profit organization.
Personal perspective
As a survivor of abuse, McMullen has a “personal passion” for running and physical fitness for a number of reasons.
“Running helps me cope by providing a powerful sense of personal control,” she said. “It also helps with resilience, while relieving stress and quieting the distractions in life.
“And, above all, there is that comforting sound of connecting with the pavement and just being out in nature. This allows me to focus on my spiritual growth.”
McMullen started running about 16 years ago and has completed seven 26.2-mile marathons, 14 half-marathons, and several 10k and 5k events.
“I don’t run as fast or as far as I used to. But I still get that runner’s high when the run is complete.”
For more information, contact McMullen by calling 620-793-9941.
The FCC serves families in Barton, Barber, Comanche, Edwards, Kiowa, Ness, Pawnee, Pratt, Rush and Stafford counties. The 24-hour crisis hotline is 866-792-1885.
