By Robin GOLDSWORTHY

Rather than carbing up for an upcoming 5K, Monte Vista Elementary School members of Girls on the Run instead sold carbs – donuts – as a fundraiser for Prom Plus. 

The tasty fundraiser was held after school on Thursday, Nov. 29 at the Commons adjacent to the school at the corner of Rosemont and Orange avenues. It went so well that the girls soon sold out of the afternoon treats.

Girls on the Run is a nationwide program to benefit young women and the fundraiser was one of the tenets of the program. According to its website, “At Girls on the Run we inspire girls to recognize their inner strength and celebrate what makes them one-of-a-kind. Trained coaches lead small teams through our research-based curricula which includes dynamic discussions, activities and running games. Over the course of the 10-week program, girls in third-eighth grade develop essential skills to help them navigate their worlds and establish a lifetime appreciation for health and fitness. The program culminates with girls positively impacting their communities through a service project and being physically and emotionally prepared to complete a celebratory 5K event.”

In addition to gaining strength through their running, the Monte Vista girls expressed the personal growth they’ve experienced.

“I’ve learned to never give up and to persevere,” said Abbie Ravala, 9.

“It also teaches us to be kind to others,” added Evie Shields.

The girls meet Tuesdays and Thursdays at the school’s soccer field to practice their skills, working toward the 27 laps that make up a 5K.

Michele Rusenko is one of the coaches that oversee Girls on the Run.

“I really love this group,” she said. “I love watching the girls grow and demonstrate teamwork.”

The 5K was held in Whittier on Saturday and all girls completed the run. To celebrate the accomplishment, a potluck was held after school on Tuesday when the group presented Prom Plus with a check for $361, the amount raised from the fundraiser.

Girls on the Run liaison and Monte Vista teacher Kristin Pardo ran the program when she worked at RD White Elementary School prior to coming to Monte Vista. She also hosted the potluck. Principal Suzanne Risse stopped by to congratulate the girls and Pardo.

“Good work,” she said of the girls’ performance, adding about Pardo, “good choice.”

For the final run of the season, the girls took to the school parking lot and burst through the banner that was used to promote the donut fundraiser.