Girls on the Run (GOTR) Lancaster will hold the GOTR 5K presented by Orthopedic Associates of Lancaster on Saturday, Nov. 19, at Millersville University. The race will begin at 9 a.m. behind Pucillo Gym on the university's campus and will serve as a celebration for girls in the GOTR program as it draws to a close for the season. Daniel Wubah, president of Millersville University, will hand out medals to GOTR participants at the end of the race.

The 5K will not be timed or competitive, and GOTR invites members of the public who wish to run in the race or cheer on the runners from the sidelines to participate. "People love to come if it's their first time doing a race and they want to be a part of an uplifting experience," said Jes Wilson, director of the 5K.

There are a variety of ways to participate; beyond running in the race or cheering on the runners, people can register to become volunteers for the event. GOTR is in need of volunteers to act as course marshals during the race, directing the runners along the route and encouraging them throughout the day. "We take the safety of participants very seriously and go to great lengths to ensure they are safe," said Wilson. "(Being a course marshal) is a great way to volunteer and be a part of an awesome day." To become a volunteer, visit http://www.gotrlancaster.org/volunteer.

GOTR is an after-school program focused on positive youth development for girls between third and eighth grades. During each 10-week season, girls meet twice a week with their teams and volunteer coaches. The program combines social and emotional learning with physical activity, covering topics such as how to identify and manage emotions, make friends, navigate peer pressure and take care of one's physical and mental health.

"Each lesson builds on the last; one week they might learn how to be a good friend to someone and the next week will cover how to make friends," said Katie Sandoe, executive director of GOTR Lancaster.

Registration for the 5K will be available online until Wednesday, Nov. 16, at midnight. Registration will also be offered on the day of the race between 7 and 8:30 a.m. To register online, visit https://tinyurl.com/GOTR5K2022.