Volunteer Highlight — Carrie Haugen
Meet Carrie Haugen
BIO Girls Site Director in Hawley, Minnesota
Carrie is in her 4th year mentoring for BIO Girls and believes we can build a world that allows girls to love themselves. She continues to believe that the mission is something that every girl and woman need.
“I volunteer with BIO Girls because the mission is something every girl and woman needs. I still struggle with self-confidence and if my actions can help a girl learn that she is unique, special, and worthy just as she is, I am doing something purposeful. Volunteering and hearing these messages year after year have opened my eyes to how we can shift our words, actions, and thoughts to build a world that allows girls to love themselves.”
Running isn’t always everyone’s favorite part of the program but time after time, it gives mentors the opportunity to really get to know participants in their programs. Some of the best conversations happen out on the route!
“My second year as a mentor, I paired up with one girl during one of early run sessions. I hadn’t met her yet, she wasn’t in my small group, but we were going about the same pace. She was struggling a bit so I tried to distract her by asking her fun questions to get to know her. We ended up running together every week, and I learned so much about her! She’s in junior high now and I still think about her. I saw her grow in her confidence week after week as we ran further distances. I was so impressed by her perseverance and it was fun to celebrate together at the end of the 5k!”
BIO Girls mantras are everyone’s favorite way to reframe their mindset and Carrie has a hard time picking just one.
“I have to pick one?! I think the lesson around body image always sticks with me. It is so hard not to compare yourself to others - I still do it today! This lesson reminds me that it’s what is inside that matters most - how we love others, how we show up for ourselves. It reframes my thinking and I think it’s a lesson that needs to be heard no matter age you’re at.”
Carrie, thank you so much for taking the charge in Hawley! We are so grateful for your time and leadership along with the incredible impact you create. Thank you!!
How can I get involved?
We have a variety of ways for people to get involved with BIO Girls. We can’t wait to connect with you and see where we can make an impact in your community together!