In 2009, Black Girls RUN! (BGR!) was created to tackle the growing obesity epidemic in the African American community and provide encouragement and resources to both new and veteran runners. The organization is committed to the health of African American women by encouraging a healthy lifestyle, specifically through running and exercise. The organization has numerous chapters across the United States with options to also become a brand ambassador. Many of these chapters are local to some of McCormick Taylor's offices.
Heather Martin, a Planner III in our Exton office and member of our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, requested funds for the BGR! Foundation from McCormick Taylor's Charity Committee.
“The pandemic made it hard for me to participate in the Black Lives Matter movements taking place across the country last summer, especially in the wake of the murder of George Floyd. Looking for a way to support the Black Community as a white, female ally, I found the BGR! foundation. The group hosted a virtual 5K race in which I participated. Running is a virtually free way to alleviate stress, stay healthy, get outdoors, and interact in a positive way with your community. Everyone deserves the right and freedom to do so safely and without fear. To be able to give to a charity that encourages this to directly empower the Black, female community across the country helped make me feel more connected to the cause I adamantly support as an ally.”
In 2018, the Black Girls RUN! Foundation was created as means to support their national community footprint, programming, and expansion of the organization. Donations are used to host events and races, as well as provide resources to members, such as support from coaches and nutritionists. Members do not pay a fee to join a BGR! group. As with all non-profits, BGR! has been impacted by COVID-19. A donation from McCormick Taylor helps BGR! ensure they are getting the support they need during an already difficult time.
Click here to learn more about Black Girls RUN!
About McCormick Taylor's Charity Committee
McCormick Taylor’s Charity Committee helps our employees give back to their communities. By becoming involved with our employees’ different organizations, programs, and charities, we grow closer to our employees and the places we call home.
Click here to see the other organizations we support.
About McCormick Taylor's DE&I Committee
McCormick Taylor strives to cultivate a diverse and inclusive environment. Our commitment to inclusion spans age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, nationality, religion, and physical and mental ability. Our focus is on building a culture that promotes, supports, and values the diverse backgrounds and voices of our employees so that everyone can succeed.
Photos courtesy of BGR!
