If you’ve ever watched a woman carry a 30 pound toddler and a week’s worth of groceries in one trip, coordinate 5 schedules and never miss a jog, or plan an egg-free, nut-free, gluten-free, dairy-free birthday party for a child who will only eat things shaped like triangles, you know that Moms Run This Town.

“This was the best year so far! Last year it was just blistering hot, and the year before we ran in horrible storms. This year it was just beautiful. We were thrilled, the weather was perfect!”

Heather Hawkins loves being part of Moms Run This Town, a national women’s free running group. You don’t have to be a mom to join, just a woman over 18.

“There are so many benefits to this group. Just the energy of these women, everyone is always rooting for each other, keeping each other accountable. And of course, there’s safety in numbers.”

The sad reality is that thousands of women have given up the idea of going for a jog, or even a walk, out of fear. She Runs This Town put women back in control.

“It’s empowering, building a network of women who have so much in common.” And when you feel empowered, you have the space to get fun and creative with it.

“This was our fourth M2M Relay, and it was the fourth time we won the costume contest! I feel privileged to just spend time with these women, and M2M is just so much fun. You’d think it would wear you out, but we had so much energy at the end to dance. If you’ve never done a race before, or if you have and you’re thinking about doing it again, just do it. Just join. It’s so much fun!”