By Kimberly Paulk, SHARECharlotte.com, a free, easy and local website that makes it easy to learn about and engage with our local nonprofits.
“For everyone of us that succeeds, it’s because there’s somebody there to show you the way.” ~ Oprah Winfrey
If you’re the parent of a boy, or there’s a boy in your life you absolutely adore, then Ashley Armistead’s words will ring true.
“How many times have you heard, ‘Boys will be boys,’ or ‘Too much testosterone in the room? I was always shocked by these comments, as I know that my boys far surpass me in their caring actions, integrity, and self-control.” After becoming a mom of two boys, “I became more aware of societal expectations of boys and of men.”
Ashley is the founder of Let Me Run, a Charlotte-based nonprofit that inspires boys through the power of running to be courageous enough to be themselves, to build healthy relationships, and to live an active lifestyle.. The format feels a bit like Girls on the Run, but this is all about boys, with lesson plan titles like “Real Men Show their Feelings,” “Everyday Heroes,” and “Getting to Know You.” The program is designed for grades 4-8 and is open to boys of all ability levels.
Let Me Run is spreading nationwide, but its roots are here in Charlotte with over 1500 boys served in 2014. Two sessions each year (fall and spring) mean it’s time to start thinking about gearing up for spring coaching! Now is the time to learn more about this unique opportunity to make a significant difference in boys’ lives – in just 3 hours a week. How awesome is that? Check out the opportunity below, and for more information remember you can always visit SHARE Charlotte.
Spring Coaches – Coaches can be male or female, and since they work in pairs only one coach is required to be a runner. It all starts with a training session, then coaches meet twice a week with their team (the season is 7 weeks long) and finish up with a 5K.