JOSEPH, Mich. United Federal Credit Union (UFCU) and United Way of Southwest Michigan are teaming up to make sure the 900-plus participants in this years Girls on the Run (GOTR) 5K are well equipped to cross the finish line.
The life-changing GOTR program for 3rd through 8th graders combines training for the 5K with lessons that inspire girls to become independent thinkers, make healthy decisions and enhance their problem-solving skills. Many of the girls who participate are unable to afford the running shoes, which are not only key to physical performance, but also provide a psychological boost.
UFCU is serving as the presenting sponsor of United Ways GOTR program in Berrien County for the fourth consecutive year. This year, UFCU branches will also serve as collection points for donations to help pay for running shoes for the girls. The
Your Change Can Make a Difference shoe drive kicks off Friday, April 1, 2016.
"We believe in making sound investments and that includes investing in people. That is why we support Girls on the Run," says UFCU CEO/President Terry ORourke. "In preparing themselves to complete a 5K event, the girls set goals, work hard, and ultimately learn that anything is possible. It is more than a run. Its about building self-esteem and showing them how much they are valued."
United Way has received many grants and donations to help offset the cost of the shoes over the years.� However, the number of participants has expanded from 200 in its first year to more than 900 this year, increasing the cost exponentially. This years price tag for shoes exceeds $41,000.
"The goal of this program is to create a lifetime commitment to healthy choices and positive lifestyles," says United Way of Southwest Michigan President Anna Murphy. "We appreciate any sort of donation made to the shoe drive, whether it be through donating your spare change or visiting the United Way of Southwest Michigan website to contribute online. We also invite the community to participate in the 5K by running alongside the girls or signing up to volunteer."
More than 2,000 people participated in last years GOTR 5K in Berrien County, making it one of the largest runs in the county. This years run takes place on Thursday, May 19, 6 p.m., at the Berrien County Youth Fairgrounds, Berrien Springs, Michigan. To register to run or volunteer, visit the United Way website:
http://www.uwsm.org/girlsontherun
To donate to the
Your Change Can Make a Difference shoe drive, drop by any UFCU branch in Berrien County starting April 1. Branches are located at:
- 724 E Napier Ave, Benton Harbor, Michigan
- 9097 US Highway 31, Berrien Springs, Michigan
- 808 E Front St, Buchanan, Michigan
- 123 Sycamore St, Niles, Michigan
- 2100 S 11th St, Niles; 2819 S State St, Saint Joseph, Michigan
- 5611 Cleveland Ave, Stevensville, Michigan
Donations can also be made on United Way website.
About UFCU
United Federal Credit Union has served its Members since 1949 by helping them to build a sound financial future. UFCU consists of more than 140,000 Member/owners worldwide, and manages assets in excess of $2 billion. Its corporate offices and main branch are located in St. Joseph, Mich., with additional branches in Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, North Carolina, Nevada, and Ohio.
