Girls on the Run International has inspired more than 1.8 million girls to be healthy and confident by using an evidence-based curriculum that creatively integrates running. Now the organization has announced the merger of two local councils, Girls on the run of Northeast Kansas and Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills into a single Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills organization.The council will serve girls and families in a 10-county area, including Clay, Cloud, Geary , Pottawatomie, Riley, Jackson, Lyon, Osage, Shawnee and Wabaunsee.

The merger of two neighboring councils will create a stronger, regional, independent council. Candice McIntosh, executive director of Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills, will continue to lead the new council.

“We plan to continue to involve hundreds of local volunteers who have played critical roles at each council by serving as coaches and liaisons, 5K volunteers and participating in fund development,” McIntosh added.