So, I am running in another race.
After running my first half marathon in May 2012, I am itching to do it again! This particular race is a 10K, so less than half of what I ran a few weeks ago.
I have continued to run, although a little less sporadic than when I was training for the half marathon. So for the next two weeks I am back on a rigorous training schedule to prepare for this race.
Besides the enjoyment of running, I entered this race for the cause that it supports. It is meant to celebrate women across Canada as well as support girls around the world through an organization called Because I Am A Girl . This organization helps girls and women to be empowered. It gives them a leg up. It gives them a start in life that they may not otherwise have. We women in North America know the power that women can have when given a chance...I want to give that chance to girls and women in developing countries too.
Here is some shocking information right off the website...
Did you know...?
>> 70% of the one billion pople living in extremem poverty are women and girls.
>> Girls are 3x more likely to be malnourished than boys.
>> In the poorest countries of the world, 50% of girls do not attend secondary school.
>> An extra year of school for girls increases their lifetime income by 15%.
>> Children of women who have completed primary school are less likely to die before age 5 than children of mothers with no schooling.
>> Women invest more of their income in their families than men do.
Girls and women in the world's poorest countires are the most vunerable members of society, denied the same rights and opportunities as their brothers.
"And yet research is also clear that when girls reach their full potential, through improved status, better health care, and education, it is the most effective development tool for society as a whole. As a country's primary enrolment rate for girls increases, so too does its gross domestic product per capita."
THERE IS HOPE!
I challenge you to read a little more and Explore the Girl Issue. These stories will get you thinking...and hopefully engage you to lend a hand.
My goal is to raise at least $200 to support this organization. If you are at all interested in making a donation you can follow these steps...
1. Log on to www.runningroom.com
2. Click on the tab along the top marked GIVING
3. Click on the box labeled PLEDGE AN ATHLETE
4. Type in my name (Cindy Backstrom) and click SEARCH
5. Click on my race: STARBUCKS RUN FOR WOMEN
6. Finally, click on SPONSOR ME and follow the instructions to donate.
NOTE: You will receive a tax receipt for your generous donation.
I thank you in advance for considering this an opportunity to help women in our world.
Blessings on you all!
