We are so lucky to be surrounded by supporters like Sherry Klinkner. Sherry  is a GOTR donor and volunteer who has helped with everything from coach box prep to 5K set up to sponsoring fees for GOTR youth. And this month, she is hosting a home trunk show where her artisan jewelry will be for sale with proceeds going to GOTR. Keep reading to learn how she is sharing her passion and creativity for the future of girls!

My journey to my involvement with GOTR is an interesting one. Even before I retired, I was volunteering and involved with a number of nonprofit organizations including Zonta, DAIS, the Literacy Network, and the Madison Art Guild. When planning what retirement should look like for me, I knew I wanted to accomplish two things: to increase my volunteering opportunities and teach myself jewelry design.

Previously, although my involvement with nonprofit organizations was satisfying, I felt something was missing. Then three years ago, I volunteered to help set up the GOTR 5K run/walk in June. Immediately, I felt a sense of WOW! The energy and the sense of being one big family dedicated to a shared goal (and seeing Annie Taff, GOTR staff, in a tutu) made me realize I had found my perfect nonprofit organization match! Everyone I met, both other volunteers and staff made me want to become more and more involved.

The commitment of raising generations of strong, self confident young women is more important now than ever. That's why I sponsor youth who otherwise may not be able to participate and volunteer whenever needed. I have two young granddaughters, 5 and 8, and hope they will grow to be strong enough to face anything life throws at them. I feel humbled to be part of an organization committed to that goal.

This fall, I hope to use my skill as a jewelry designer to raise money for GOTR. Each of my jewelry items are original, intricate pieces of wearable art. As an artist, I gravitate towards using mixed metals and achritectual shapes. Items include a huge variety of bracelets, earrings and necklaces including cuff, steampunk, woven and bangle. This year, I’ll have a line of earrings for youth.

Please join me on Friday October 25 from 5-9 pm and Saturday, October 26 from 10-4 for this special trunk show at my home in Fitchburg where you can shop, enjoy appetizers, and learn more about GOTR. Joining me is amazing paint pouring artist Deborah Thompson. A percentage of every item sold will go to GOTR. Hundreds of items will be for sale starting at $10 and up.

Friday, October 25, 5-9 pm
Saturday, October 26, 10-4
2825 Endive Drive Fitchburg

An example of the true spirit of GOTR, one of my favorite volunteer experiences was at the 5K run/walk this June 2024. Weather conditions couldn’t have been worse. Temperatures were in the low 60s and there was torrential rain! Still, all 92 teams and their supporters showed up. Everyone was wet and cold but smiling and cheering and full of joy watching these young girls experience such a deep sense of accomplishment. What a perfect example of the dedication and commitment of everyone involved in GOTR to raising strong, confident girls who become strong and confident women. This encourages me to do whatever I can to keep the GOTR organization strong and to reach more and more youth. I feel honored to part of this organization.

Thank you, Sherry, for sharing your incredible star power with us. If you, like Sherry, would like to deepen your involvement in our work to strengthen girls, contact staff member Mary Salisbury anytime to learn more. She may be reached at Mary.salisbury@girlsontherun.org or 608-352-0038.