The non-profit organization, Girls on the Run, has a saying “learn, dream, live, love.”

The group of elementary school girls is all about embracing life, rising to meet challenges and helping make the world a better place.

Through a focus on teamwork, no bullying, healthy food choices, getting out and being active, Girls on the Run meets after school two days a week, culminating in a 5K run at the end of the season.

In its second successful year at Northwestern Elementary, the group decided to embark on a fundraiser.

On May 12, they coupled with Kisses for Kyle, a local foundation that supports families of children with cancer.

The foundation, originally from Bucks County, is growing and supports Lehigh Valley families.

Girls on the Run became aware of Kisses for Kyle through one of its members, Payten Duffy-Seimmer.

Payten was diagnosed with leukemia at age 2.

According to Shannon Duffy, Payten’s mom, Payten has been cancer-free since 2009.

Since then, her family has been trying to give back to the organization they say helped tremendously during Peyton’s battle with leukemia.

“Kisses for Kyle supported us when Payten had leukemia,” Duffy said. “I never could say enough words, hands down, whatever you needed, whether it was getting the oil changed in your car, anything, they were there to help.”

One of the coaches from Girls on the Run, Shannon Smedstad, said the girls decided they wanted to do a fundraiser.

Payten came in and told her friends about Kisses for Kyle, and they ran with the idea for a bake sale.

The event was titled, “Kookies & Kupcakes,” a sweet way to support childhood cancer, raised $340 for Kisses for Kyle.