March 30, 2026
By: Liz Carter, Director of Community Experience and Engagement
In celebration of Women’s History Month, I had the privilege of co-hosting a conversation that truly captured what it means to build community, foster inclusivity, and invest in the wellbeing of those around us.
Alongside my co-lead, Alissa Berry, our Women in the Rain resource group welcomed an incredible group of voices for a panel with Girls on the Run International (GOTRI) – an organization whose impact reaches far beyond the track. What unfolded wasn’t just a discussion. It was a reminder of the power of storytelling, and how sharing our experiences can bring us closer together.
We were honored to be joined by Liz Wian, Chief Development Officer at Girls on the Run International, as well as two of our own Rain Makers – Morgen Malte, a former GOTR participant and Madeline Ursem, a current volunteer. Each brought a unique perspective on what it means to grow from a “girl on the run” into a “woman on the run,” and how those experiences shape who we become – personally and professionally.
At its core, Girls on the Run is about more than physical activity. Across more than 12,000 communities in North America, the program supports girls at a pivotal stage in their lives – when confidence can waver, and challenges like bullying begin to surface. Through a research-based curriculum, they create safe, supportive spaces where girls can build confidence, prioritize their health, and develop skills that carry them into adulthood as Morgen personally attested to.
What stood out most in the conversation was how deeply everything ties back to the community. Whether it’s the coaches and volunteers showing up week after week, the families and communities cheering from the sidelines, or the girls themselves encouraging one another – there is a shared sense of belonging that fuels both growth and joy.