ROCHESTER, Minn. - Local elementary and middle schoolers got together to run a 5k at Saint Mary's campus for Girls on the Run Minnesota. It's a non-profit where girls train with coaches to run but also learn life skills.

Program Director Stacey Haynes says some of the skills they teach are learning how to stand up for yourself and managing your emotions.

She's been with the organization for a couple of years. Haynes says in this day and age where social media is prevalent young girls can lose their confidence which is why they focus on fighting negativity through positive self-talk.

"They figure out what's important to them and what makes them shine bright and then they're able to help others in regards what makes them shine bright," said Haynes.

They plan to host their next 5K in Rochester in June.