As a national sponsor of the Girls on the Run SoleMates charity running program, Garmin is partnering with this great organization to further their mission and share the stories of the women and men who are “running for a reason”. Runners can sign up for any event — runs, walks, bike rides or triathlons — and raise funds that will support their chosen council of Girls on the Run. Want your next race to help change lives? Find out more here. Then learn how Natalie turned a little “sister inspiration” into her chance to influence another sisterhood — the Girls on the Run participants who will benefit from her efforts.

I put my hair in a ponytail, put on my shirt, pull on my shorts and socks. I slide into my shoes and double-knot my laces. Standing tall, I look at the path and immediately start breathing: in through my nose, out through my mouth. My pace parallels my breath, and I feel relaxed as a slight breeze blows against my face. I am running. Although running is not for everyone, I wish I could share the feelings of running: calm empowerment, rejuvenation, strength. Sometimes I run alone, other times with friends. Best of all, I am inspired by others to become a better runner, and before I know it, I am signing up to do my first race.

Although she may not know it, I am constantly motivated by my older sister to run. I remember her response to her training schedule, "oh, I just run two to three times a week," a part of her weekly routine. I was prepared to run, but I knew I needed the right reason to sign up for a race. And then I was introduced to Girls on the Run. The program not only has girls participating in outside physical activity, but also teaches valuable skills that would help these girls blossom into women. I recently attended a GOTR meeting, where I was inspired by a good friend to get involved with the SoleMates program and immediately contacted the Executive Director of Girls on the Run for my local chapter. I knew the best way to contribute my time would be to run for girls to run, so I became a SoleMates fundraiser. Now when I put on my running outfit, I reflect on those who inspire me, knowing that I have created the opportunity for girls to develop positive life skills.