KGPCo, a woman-owned business based in Faribault, announced its title sponsorship of the Girls on the Run Minnesota 5K as part of a four-year commitment. From now through 2027, the end-of-season celebration will be called the KGPCo Girls on the Run Minnesota 5K. 

KGPCo’s financial support ensures that Girls on the Run programming will remain accessible to participants across the state. “We’re deeply grateful for this support from KGPCo,” said Kathleen Cannon, executive director of Girls on the Run Minnesota. “Their commitment is a meaningful show of support that will allow more girls than ever to build relationships, learn about intentional decision-making and develop confidence through accomplishment over the next four years.” GOTR MN expects to reach more than 5,000 girls in 2024.

“Through our sponsorship of the KGPCo Girls on the Run Minnesota 5K, girls are provided with invaluable opportunities to belong to a nurturing community where kindness and support are foundational principles,” said Megan VonRuden, chair of KGPCo. “At Girls on the Run, every girl is valued and respected, creating a safe environment where bullies have no place. As a company committed to fostering positive change, KGPCo’s support of Girls on the Run reflects our dedication to shaping a brighter future for young women.”

“It takes significant resources to power inclusive programs for young people with all backgrounds and abilities, and supporters like KGPCo make a big difference,” Cannon added. To remove cost as a barrier to participation, GOTR MN offers a “pay-what-you-can” model to families, and also provides running shoes, pants and sports hijabs to girls who need them. Additionally, GOTR MN provides specific lesson adaptations developed with the National Center on Health, Physical Activity & Disability (NCHPAD) to more fully include girls with physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities.

The next KGPCo Girls on the Run Minnesota 5Ks will be held at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds on June 1, 2024, and at St. Mary’s University in Rochester and Leif Eriksen Park in Duluth on June 2, 2024. For more information, visit www.gotrmn.org/5K