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Girls on the Run's New Jersey North division has several Bergen County sites -- including Glen Rock, Ridgewood, Englewood and Cresskill.
It recently launched a new site in Jersey City and is hoping to do the same in Teaneck or Hackensack.
"The goal of this program is to teach these girls that they are amazing just the way they are and that their potential is limitless," program coordinator Melissa Fagersten said.
"There is no greater gift than seeing them realize that for themselves."
GOTR is hoping to nail down its new location in time for the spring season in March.
The team — a group of 12-15 athletes led by two or three coaches — will use the space to keep their bags and talk before setting out to run.
By the end of the season, the girls will have the tools that they need to face social hardships along with new friends and a boost in self-confidence, Fagersten said.
The season culminates with a 5K race — something that poses an initial challenge to many of the athletes.
Coaches, teachers and peers, however, will cheer them on to the finish line and beyond.
"When the girls on my team cross that finish line, I am overwhelmed with honor and pride knowing I am forever part of that memory," Fagersten said. "That I was there during that transformation."
EMAIL MELISSA FAGERSTEN TO GET INVOLVED.
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