Julie brings warmth, encouragement, and a whole lot of heart to her coaching — and as she’ll tell you, the experience has been just as meaningful for her as it has been for the girls she serves.

What keeps you coming back year after year to help at Girls on the Run?

For Julie, it’s the joy of watching girls do hard things and grow into themselves. She shares that one of the most rewarding parts of volunteering is helping girls build confidence while learning self-care and self-improvement skills through the curriculum — skills that have resonated deeply with her personally as well. “I find it meaningful and it makes me feel good to be involved in this positive work,” Julie says. “Focusing on these skills has helped me in my own personal development, too.”

When did you first get involved with Girls on the Run, and what motivated you to join?

Julie’s journey with Girls on the Run began when she saw coverage of a GOTR 5K on the local news.

What stood out immediately? The joy. The positive messages. The focus on building girls’ confidence and self-esteem — and, as Julie fondly notes, “all the colors and smiles!”

A runner herself, Julie and her husband signed up to participate in the next 5K to support the girls. Being there in person was an unforgettable experience. “It was so uplifting, inspiring, and fun,” she says. “That’s when I knew I wanted to be more involved — and I decided to become a community coach.”

Can you highlight the different roles you’ve taken on over the years?

At Milwaukee College Prep, Julie has served primarily as an assistant coach, working alongside long-time coach Molly Nilsson (who Julie proudly calls “awesome!”). Her role centers on being a steady, caring presence — supporting, encouraging, and truly getting to know each girl. “I feel my purpose is to be a good role model,” Julie shares. “I love running, walking, moving with them — and I love the conversations.”

And while she’s quick to mention movement and mentorship, the girls might say her homemade snacks are a pretty big highlight, too. 

What has been your most memorable experience while volunteering?

For Julie, it’s the small, meaningful moments that leave the biggest impact. She cherishes the times when a girl chooses to walk, run, or talk with her — and especially when a girl feels safe enough to come to her with a question or concern. “Once in a great while, they’ll even hold my hand,” she says. “That is the best.”

Of course, watching the girls cross the finish line at the 5K — proud, smiling, and celebrating what they’ve accomplished — is always a powerful reminder of why this work matters.

How do you feel your contributions have made an impact?

Julie sees her role as helping create a caring, encouraging environment where girls feel supported and heard. She provides extra hands and listening ears during lessons, helps facilitate curriculum activities, and hopes she’s inspired girls to embrace movement and healthy habits — no matter their age. “Yes,” she jokes, “even this old woman likes exercise and running!”

What would you say to someone considering volunteering for the first time?

Julie’s message is simple and heartfelt: Go for it.

She emphasizes that you don’t need to be a runner to volunteer — you just need a willingness to show up, move in your own way, and be part of a team. “The focus on working together, doing your best, having fun, and learning to love yourself is so uplifting,” she says. “It brings so much happiness.”

We are incredibly grateful for Julie’s commitment, compassion, and the care she brings to the girls at Milwaukee College Prep. Volunteers like Julie help make Girls on the Run a place where confidence grows, connections form, and girls learn they are capable of so much more than they imagine.

Julie’s impact started by simply showing up, walking, listening, encouraging, and believing in each girl. You can make that same difference. 

Get involved with Girls on the Run and help a girl grow in confidence by visiting our website:

https://www.girlsontherunsoutheasternwi.org/volunteer