Girls on the Run Chippewa Valley to Host 20th Anniversary 5K Community Celebration at Eau Claire’s Carson Park on May 9, 2026

Girls on the Run Chippewa Valley is excited to announce the return of its highly anticipated 5K Community Celebration, scheduled for the morning of May 9, 2026, at Eau Claire’s Carson Park. At our 20th Anniversary 5K Community Celebration, we gather to celebrate the courage inside of everyone. Run, walk, roll! Teams unite with the community to recognize how far our participants have come and how far they will continue to go. Voted one of Volume One’s Top 3 Run/Walks in the Best of the Chippewa Valley, the 5K celebration is a day where every person – girls, coaches, caregivers, families, community members are free to be themselves, experience joy and cross the finish line.

Girls on the Run combines physical activity with engaging lessons to help participants build confidence, foster healthy relationships, and develop vital life skills. Over the course of the 8-week program, participants prepare to complete a 5K, while learning how to navigate emotions, grow as a team, and make a positive impact in their communities.

This season we are partnering with Feed My People Food Bank as a Community Impact Project at our 5K in celebration of small acts of kindness making a big difference. All participants and attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to Feed My People Food Bank.

"We are thrilled to have 400 registered girls at 22 schools in western Wisconsin participating in our 20th Anniversary 5K Community Celebration along with over 100 volunteer coaches, 300 caregivers, and the community running, walking, and rolling alongside them.” said Rose Dolan-Neill, Executive Director. "Since the first practice, these girls have been working hard to complete a 5K all while building strength and coming together as a team. Last season, over 750 participants joined us on the course, and we can’t wait to see the community unite again to celebrate the limitless potential of our GOTR girls in even bigger numbers.”

Registration for the 5K on May 9 is open to the public, and all proceeds from the event benefit Girls on the Run Chippewa Valley. Registration includes an event shirt while supplies last, and a medal. The 5K festivities include free, family fun activities that begin at 8:30am; early arrival is recommended. For more information about the event, registration details, and volunteer opportunities, please visit www.gotrchippewavalley.org