Nonprofit Spotlight: Girls on the Run Bayou Region builds bodies and minds
Girls on the Run Bayou Region is a physical-activity-based program designed to enhance girls’ social, psychological and physical wellbeing.
The Courier and Daily Comet asked the Houma-based group's director, Ashlee Laiche, to tell us about its activities. Edited answers to our questions follow.
What services do you provide?
Over 10 weeks, girls in grades 3-8 participate in an after-school program. The program is administered by trained, volunteer coaches 18 and older who mentor the girls through a fun and uplifting curriculum. Participants explore and discuss their own beliefs around experiences and challenges girls face at this age. They also develop important strategies and skills to help them navigate life experiences. We start with helping the girls get a better understanding of who they are and what’s important to them. Then, we look at the importance of teamwork and healthy relationships. Finally, the girls explore how they can positively connect with and shape the world.