Girls on the Run of the Shenandoah Valley is thrilled to announce that local girl empowerment volunteer Wendy Carlson, is the winner of this year’s Remarkable Volunteer Award! Selected by the organization's headquarters, Girls on the Run International, the Remarkable Volunteer Awards is an annual national volunteer recognition program designed to shine a light on the inspirational and transformative impact volunteers have on Girls on the Run participants and communities.
“Wendy exemplifies the core values of Girls on the Run,” said Annoica Ingram, Executive Director. “She leads with an open heart, bringing warmth. During her role as Chair, her intentional decisions guided us through strategic planning and growth.”
“I’ve had the privilege of working with Wendy in many roles—from coaching alongside her to serving together on the board. When I stepped into the role of Executive Director in 2021 and Wendy became Chair, we navigated the challenges of the pandemic side by side. She extended her leadership to support board transitions, all while balancing her teaching career. Whether guiding strategy, mentoring me and board members, or setting up the arch at our 5K, Wendy shows that no task is too small. Her support has been invaluable to both our council and my own growth, truly embodying the core values of Girls on the Run.”
“Volunteers like Wendy are at the heart of what makes Girls on the Run unlike any other program,” added Laurel Webster, Board Chair. “She paved the way for our current board’s success and growth in the Shenandoah Valley, and she continues to be both a wise and listening ear for our leadership. Beyond the boardroom, Wendy remains an impactful volunteer, showing up with energy and care to cheer girls on and ensure our 5K celebrations shine. Her compassion and dedication inspire every girl to know her words matter and to live boldly.”
“Last year, Girls on the Run of the Shenandoah Valley was fortunate to have more than 300 volunteers, and this year, we are so proud to recognize Wendy’s effort, compassion, and dedication with this meaningful award.”
Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based positive youth development program for girls in grades 3–8. Through fun team-building activities, group discussions, and movement-based games, participants build confidence, increase physical activity, and develop essential life skills. Each season concludes with a community impact project and a celebratory 5K.
The program’s impact is especially vital today. According to the 2023 Girls’ Index, girls’ confidence has dropped from 68% in 2017 to 55% in 2023. Locally, however, Girls on the Run participants report significant growth—95% said they felt more confident after the spring 2024 season.