TOMS RIVER, N.J. - s4story -- Thanks to the generous support of Ocean Partnership for Children, 173 girls across Ocean County were able to participate in the Girls on the Run program this spring through scholarship funding provided to schools and community sites throughout the region.

The funding supported participants at six schools in Toms River, two schools in Jackson, one school in Point Pleasant, and one site in Little Egg Harbor, ensuring that girls had access to a program that builds confidence, fosters healthy habits, and develops essential life skills through running and interactive lessons.

The season culminated with two celebratory 5K events that brought together participants, coaches, families, and community supporters.

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The first event was held at Toms River North High School and included girls from all twelve Toms River elementary schools. The event welcomed 190 girls, 35 volunteer coaches, and more than 300 family members and spectators who came together to cheer on the participants as they crossed the finish line and celebrated their accomplishments.

A second end-of-season 5K was held in Fair Haven, bringing together Girls on the Run participants from Monmouth and Ocean Counties, including the two Jackson schools, the Point Pleasant site, and the Little Egg Harbor location supported through Ocean County Partnership funding.

"Girls on the Run empowers young girls to recognize their strengths, build confidence, and establish healthy habits that can last a lifetime," said Donna York, Executive Director. "The support from Ocean County Partnership made it possible for many girls to participate who otherwise may not have had the opportunity."

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Ocean Partnership for Children's investment reflects its commitment to supporting programs that promote youth development, health, and community engagement throughout Ocean County.

Representatives from Ocean Partnership for Children attended the Toms River 5K celebration, joining participants, coaches, and families in recognizing the girls' achievements and the positive impact of the program.

Girls on the Run is a nonprofit program that inspires participants to be joyful, healthy, and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum that creatively integrates running. The season-ending 5K serves as a powerful celebration of each girl's growth and accomplishments.

For more information about Girls on the Run and future programming opportunities, please contact Donna York at donna.york@girlsontherun.org.For more information about Ocean Partnership for Children visit www.oceanpartnership.org, or follow on social media @OceanPartnership