“Girls on the Run St. Louis is honored to present the 2021 Energy Award for Empathy, presented by Ballpark Village, to David Pokorny.   Dedicated volunteer and supporter of Girls on the Run St. Louis, David Pokorny is a firm believer in the power of possibility and the community that comes from the GOTR lesson of empathy: connecting with others so we can understand their experiences and know we are not alone, but truly on the same team.     After experiencing his first GOTR 5K, David enthusiastically embraced the mission and has celebrated and tirelessly advocated for it ever since. His volunteer service has included coaching, Sparkler at many 5Ks, chair of the Board of Directors and he currently serves on the Advisory Council. But perhaps he is most recognized for his impact as a SoleMate. David has traversed multiple states on his bicycle, summited the three tallest peaks in the lower 48 and is currently summiting Denali in Alaska, the highest peak in North America, in order to raise scholarship support for Girls on the Run St. Louis.     “Being part of GOTR is something that I am grateful for and it is a privilege for me. Knowing that we can do more and make a difference for girls is something I celebrate!”   David enters into every challenge wholeheartedly and with the vision that it is a new opportunity to do more, be more for our Girls on the Run. His commitment to celebrating the power and potential in every Girl on the Run ensures that we are equipping the next generation of leaders to positively impact the world – to make it a more equitable and inclusive place for all.   Please join me in celebrating our 2021 Energy Award for Empathy recipient, David Pokorny!”