Sedona Charter School Girls Unite to Spread Positivity

On the afternoon of Friday, Nov. 1, the Sedona Charter Schools Girls on the Run program conducted its annual community service project in West Sedona. This initiative involved third through fifth-grade girls who meet bi-weekly for ten weeks each school year to cultivate their athletic skills.

Traditionally, the team participates in community service activities. In past seasons, the girls have volunteered at local assisted living facilities or organized bake sales to support the Humane Society of Sedona. This year, they chose to create uplifting posters aimed at brightening the days of motorists at the busy intersection of State Route 89A and Dry Creek Road.

Head coach Jolene Flores, now in her fifth season with the program, emphasized the importance of the community impact project. “It’s a 100% girl-driven effort to give back to the community,” said Flores. Each project is determined by the girls themselves, allowing them to express their creativity and compassion.

As part of their project, the girls crafted messages designed to inspire joy. Lilu Cordova shared her contribution, stating, “Mine says, ‘You are a good person and have a good day.’” Meanwhile, Ashlynn Doyle reflected on her experience in the program, saying, “We learned about helping the community and spreading joy.”

Participants are learning valuable lessons beyond running. India Flores encouraged focusing on the positive aspects of life, stating, “Just look at the good things in the world and forget about the bad stuff for a second.”

Newcomer Mia Maratea expressed her enthusiasm, noting that the program has also enhanced her dance training. “We’re making posters to make people happy,” she said. “It’s about bringing happiness, even to people who might be having a tough day.”

The Girls on the Run initiative encompasses 27 teams across Northern Arizona, boasting around 340 participants from Coconino, Yavapai, and Navajo counties. In the Verde Valley, locations include Clarkdale-Jerome Elementary, Cottonwood Community School, Mountain View Preparatory, and West Sedona, with teams capped at approximately 25 members to maintain personalized guidance.

“I like Girls on the Run because you get to explain your emotions and you have to talk about it, too,” stated Bella Marie Barre. She shared her passion for running and how the program encourages goal-setting. Chloe Stumpf recounted being inspired by her mother’s running journey, creating signs that read, “Honk if you’re happy” and “Believe in yourself.”

Flores noted the importance of finding balance in both running and life. “Finding a ‘happy pace’ is like taking a breath — it’s not too fast, it’s not too slow,” she explained. Her motivation stems from the enthusiasm and determination of the girls she coaches.

The fall season for the Verde Valley culminated on Saturday, Nov. 9, at the Camp Verde Sports Complex, where all the teams participated in a 5K run. The program continues to foster fitness, community involvement, and personal growth among young girls.