Almost 500 girls from Rowan and Iredell Counties are expected for the Girls on the Run Winter 5K this Saturday at Catawba College.

Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based positive youth development program for girls in third through eighth grade. The group teaches life skills through interactive lessons and running games. The program culminates with the girls being physically and emotionally prepared to complete a celebratory 5k running event.

The event begins Saturday at 9 a.m. at Catawba College’s Shuford Stadium, 2300 W. Innes St.

The core curriculum of Girls on the Run addresses many aspects of girls’ development – their physical, emotional, mental and social well-being. Lessons provide girls with the tools to make positive decisions and to avoid risky adolescent behaviors.

The three-part curriculum is taught by certified Girls on the Run coaches and includes understanding ourselves, valuing teamwork and understanding how we connect with and shape the world at large.