Girls on the Run of the Greater Chesapeake is thrilled to announce that Nicole Tello and Willow Kalke are the winners of this year’s Remarkable Volunteer Awards! The Remarkable Volunteer Awards is an annual, national volunteer recognition program from Girls on the Run International designed to shine a light on the inspirational impact volunteers have created in our communities.
Talented Tello
Coach Nicole Tello’s energetic spirit has uplifted Girls on the Run of the Greater Chesapeake for over a decade. She’s been a coach, site liaison, junior coach mentor, advocate, and all-around Superstar. She played a key role in our council's 20th anniversary video by sharing heartfelt stories about the program’s impact and helping to organize her team as well as at our annual fundraising event.
Her contributions have made a lasting impact on our council and the lives of countless girls. Whether it’s by mentoring new volunteers, advocating for programming, or stepping in wherever needed, Nicole always says yes to helping, with energy and a bold heart!
Her dedication is not only inspirational, but generational. After coaching at her daughter’s school, she brought the program to her own school. Nicole’s daughter then became a junior coach and supported her mother’s team. Nicole shows true GOTR spirit and consistently finds meaningful ways to support and elevate our work. Energy awards for you, Nicole!
Kind Cookie Kalke
Coach Willow Kalke’s outstanding journey with Girls on the Run of the Greater Chesapeake began in 2006. She’s been an unwavering force with us and has made it her personal mission to ensure that every school she’s involved with has Girls on the Run. For instance, she’s been essential in bringing Girls on the Run to two Title I schools in our area and ensuring that girls from all backgrounds have access to the transformative lessons.
She’s usually seen with her signature pink Girls on the Run Girl hoodie and apparel, and she always says words of encouragement to the students as they walk by. Her visible pride in the program is inspiring to everyone around her, and she's got a light from within. From letters of support, to appearing in promotional videos, she’s helped fuel our mission and changed girls’ lives.
During her time with GOTRGC, Willow has also embarked on a personal health journey. She strives to lead by example, emphasizing to all participants that everyone of all shapes and sizes, belongs at GOTRGC. Her message of inclusivity and self-acceptance resonates deeply with those around her, and her contributions have left a lasting impact on the lives of the people around her, and the program itself. Cheers to you, Coach Kalke!
Nicole Tello and Willow Kalke embody the heart of what Girls on the Run of the Greater Chesapeake is all about. They both share tremendous heart power, and we’re so grateful for their commitment to ensuring girls are healthy, confident, and joyful.
Congratulations to our 2025 Remarkable Volunteer Award winners!