UWSWMN Awards KIP Grant to Embe Girls on the Run

Embe Girls on the Run teams in Fulda and MCC

United Way of Southwest Minnesota Awards Kindness Investment Program (KIP) Grant to Embe Girls on the Run

MARSHALL, MN — The United Way of Southwest Minnesota (UWSWMN) has awarded a $1,000 Kindness Investment Program (KIP) Grant to Embe Girls on the Run. This funding will support the after-school programs offered in the Fulda and Murray County Central school districts to 3rd through 8th grade girls.

"I had the pleasure of visiting with the girls and was able to witness the positive impact of the program firsthand,” said Tanya Moat, CEO of the United Way of Southwest Minnesota. “It was clear the combination of physical activity and connecting with other girls was making a lasting impact in their lives."

Through the program, girls build confidence, recognize and honor their emotions, learn how to be a good friend to one another, and discover how to use their talents to support their community and world. Using a research-based curriculum, local Girls on the Run instructors teach critical life skills through accessible running games, helping girls see the connection between their mind and body.

“Friendships and fun” were the most common answers when the girls were asked why they joined the program. While their shared fun experience may bring the girls together, it’s the intentional curriculum that ensures they leave the program with improved social, emotional, and physical well-being. To learn how to bring Embe Girls on the Run to your community, visit embe.org or contact Makenna Ewoldt at mewoldt@embe.org.

KIP Grants are awarded year-round, dependent on available funding, to nonprofit organizations, public schools, and government units for small-scale, community-level projects not currently receiving funding through a Community Impact Grant. The UWSWMN Board reviews requests and may award up to $1,000 for projects that align with one or more of UWSWMN’s priority areas: Youth Opportunities, Healthy Communities, Financial Security, and Community Resiliency.

Projects must occur within the UWSWMN service area and benefit residents in Lincoln, Lyon, Murray, Yellow Medicine, and portions of Cottonwood, Lac qui Parle, Nobles, and Redwood counties. Complete guidelines are available at unitedwayswmn.org/kindness-investment-program-kip.

For more information about the work of your local United Way, please visit UnitedWaySWMN.org.