We are thrilled for you to meet one of our incredible volunteers and the newest member of the Girls on the Run of the Greater Chesapeake Volunteer Leadership Circle, Mariah Pulver. This isn’t Mariah’s first experience volunteering with the Girls on the Run Greater Chesapeake program. Her volunteer journey began with our council in 2016 when she first coached! We are delighted to have her in a new role and even more excited for you to learn more about her through her spotlight. We asked Mariah a series of questions for her spotlight, and here are her responses.  

1.    How have you been involved with Girls on the Run? 

I was a coach for Girls on the Run at Hampton Elementary and now I am joining the Volunteer Leadership Circle. 

2.    What's your favorite Girls on the Run Lesson(s) and why?

 My favorite lesson is about communicating emotions: "I feel… when you… because… I would like for you to…" This lesson is applicable for people of any age! Everyone feels emotions and sometimes feeling sad or angry can cause you to say things in a way that isn't helpful or respectful. Having a template of how to express emotions in a way that can be heard and received makes a huge difference! 

3.    What drew you to get involved with Girls on the Run now? 

I wanted to get involved with Girls on the Run again because we are in a very tough and volatile time. Now, it is more important than ever to help girls build confidence, find their communities, and grow in a positive way. 

4.    Why do you think it's so important for girls today to have access to this program? 

Teaching girls that they are strong, powerful, and connected is crucial right now! I think Girls on the Run does an amazing job of teaching girls how to be confident, build up themselves and others, and spread positivity, which is important in today's environment. 

5.    What are some of your hobbies or interests? 

Running, reading, baking. I am also learning to play guitar! It's fun and interesting to learn something completely new as an adult.