Girls on the Run Southeastern Wisconsin will host its annual Sneaker Soiree gala at the Italian Community Center on the evening of Friday, February 10th, 2023. Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based, positive youth development program that uses fun running games and dynamic discussions to teach life skills to girls in 3rd to 8th grade. The Sneaker Soiree event will raise the needed funds that allows the organization to serve over 2,000 girls locally.

This is a great event for community members who are looking to learn more about the importance of girl-focussed positive youth development programming and the organization’s lasting impact. The Valentines-inspired gala makes a perfect date night with friends or a special someone, all while supporting a fantastic cause. Guests will have access to all event activities, including a red carpet Sneaker Contest and caricature artist, and will have unlimited access to carving stations and champagne, wine and beer. An event ticket also includes a seat for the one-hour girl power program and bid access on all auction items.

In the spirit of girl power, the event is supported by three strong female leaders in the community: Tenia Fisher, Health and Wellness Director of Social X and current Girls on the Run Board Vice Chair, will be the event Emcee. Prior Board Chairs Amy Fallucca, CEO and Founder of Bravent, and Katie Schoen, Director of Investor Relations at Baird Capital, will be co-chairing the event. 

“I'm delighted to serve as one of the event co-chairs for this year's Sneaker Soiree," said Schoen. "Girls on the Run's goals align with Baird's commitment to fostering community and being a great place to work for women. It has been rewarding to be involved in the growth that Girls on the Run has achieved with the support of local firms, including Baird. I look forward to seeing a crowded room of supporters on February 10 at the Sneaker Soiree!"

Tina Jones, Executive Director of Girls on the Run Southeastern Wisconsin, shared: “Girls on the Run programming develops girls’ social-emotional skills, giving them the tools to authentically love themselves and build positive relationships. Each year, more than half of the girls that we serve require scholarships to participate in the program. The support we receive through the Sneaker Soiree will ensure that we can keep our promise to serve EVERY girl and we are grateful and thrilled that Baird is supporting that vision.” 

Check out Baird's blog post here.