Running with Purpose Jacquelyn’s Journey as a SoleMate for Girls on the Run
When Jacquelyn laces up her running shoes, she’s not just training for another race, she’s running for a purpose. For more than 15 years, she’s been part of the Girls on the Run (GOTR) community, helping girls build confidence, strength, and connection through movement.
Her journey with GOTR began in Washington, D.C., where she first volunteered and has since brought her passion for empowering girls to Girls on the Run of the Greater Chesapeake on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, where she started a new GOTRGC team at her school. Over the years, she’s worn many Girls on the Run hats as a coach, site liaison, and SoleMate.
“Watching the girls on my team build confidence, cheer each other on, and realize their potential and strength is the absolute best,” she shares. “GOTR is so much more than running — it’s about supporting each other to find their star power and potential.”
This fall, Jacquelyn is combining her love of running and empowering girls as a Girls on the Run SoleMate, training for the Every Woman’s Marathon in Scottsdale, Arizona, on November 16. As a SoleMate, she’s raising funds to help ensure that even more girls across the Greater Chesapeake region can participate in GOTR, regardless of financial barriers.
Her motivation comes from personal experience and the incredible sense of community she’s found through the program.
“Running EWM as a SoleMate feels like the perfect way to combine two things I am passionate about: running & empowering girls. Running EWM for GOTR reminds me that every mile makes a difference in helping more girls get to experience this amazing program and its positive impact.”
When reflecting on her favorite race memory, Jacquelyn recalls the 2024 Every Woman’s Marathon in Savannah, Georgia a celebration of connection, support, and shared strength.
“My favorite part of the EWM 2024 in Savannah, GA was being surrounded by supportive women from all over the country all weekend! There was such an incredible sense of community, support and encouragement throughout the entire race- everyone was cheering & uplifting each other mile after mile. The race was emotional, uplifting, and exactly what you would hope for in a race created by and for women. I am beyond excited to run EWM again on November 16th in Scottsdale, AZ!”
As she prepares for her next marathon, Jacquelyn offers advice for others chasing big goals: “Believe in small, consistent steps. Progress does not always feel fast, but every early morning run, every mile, every tough day you push through matters. It is also important to surround yourself with people who encourage you & remind you why you started! The work and growth that happens along the way is just as important as crossing the finish line.”
Outside of running, Jacquelyn is a proud mom and early riser who starts her day before sunrise to get her miles in. Her daughters inspire her to stay curious, embrace challenges, and find joy in every journey the same lessons she passes along to her GOTR teams. Jacquelyn also enjoys baking, reading a good book, and traveling.
“My daughters inspire me every single day- to embrace challenges, be curious and have fun! They are the reason why I am so passionate about programs like GOTR.”
Support Jacquelyn’s Journey and Empower Girls
You can cheer Jacquelyn on and help make an impact by donating to her SoleMates fundraising page: Miles for Stronge Girls. Every contribution helps girls discover their limitless potential one step, one mile, and one moment of confidence at a time.
https://www.pinwheel.us/donate/Miles4StrongGirlshttps://www.pinwheel.us/donate/Miles4StrongGirls