Running for -more than just- Kicks

*-click “more” to read the story-*

WHAT- Providing quality running shoes to promote movement and mental health.

WHY- Running has provided such an amazing avenue for me to work on my mental health, and I believe it can be that for many others.

WHERE- Starting in Charlottesville, VA, my hometown, with the organization, City Of Promise. Looking to expand to other towns, as the relationships develop.

WHEN-I’d like to deliver the gift cards by December, ‘23.

The Story:

There are so many things I could go on and on about regarding the run (a very long run in The White Mountains of New Hampshire) I just accomplished, but I am going to spare you that. What I will speak to, briefly, is my "WHY" for running at all. I discovered running not too long ago, 4 years. I'll preface with, I don’t even enjoy running, but what running provides me is something I stopped arguing with. I get moving and it is like I can experience life without the emergency brake on. Daily, I struggle with my own emotions, with my ability to channel my energy, anger and depression. It all seems to take a break when I move my body through the activity of running.

I used to ask "What are you running from?" I was such an asshole. What I have started to recognize is that I am not running from anything, I am running towards everything. I can address my good, bad and ugly. I have tools in my belt to use in various situations to help with my mental health and I am grateful to have them to use, but running is my go-to. It is a meditation for me. Enough of that.

What I want is to promote access to this type of practice by getting good shoes on feet to inspire action. Something that has affected change for me is having access to great shoes. Shoes that promote my running in ways that others don’t. They are supportive, responsive and comfortable. Each of us has a unique foot and unique needs for a shoe. Some people thrive in a minimalist, whereas others want all the cushion. I am not one to suggest that there is a better option than the one that is right for you. That is why I am working to get my miles "sponsored."

Running is a source of mental wellness for me. Some people will fundraise for the exceptional effort of a singular event, and I respect that, it just does not work for me right now. What I am working on is showing up throughout the entire year. When it is cold, I get dressed and show up. When it is wet, I am tired, I don't want to...I lace up and go. My mental health is non-negotiable. I want that for others. I have run 1500 miles this year, and that number will likely go over 2k. If I can raise $3/mile I run this year, I can get shoes on many feet. I will start through the City of Promise in Charlottesville, VA. I encourage you to look at their mission, it is a really special offering for many communities in Charlottesville. During an event I participated in earlier this summer, I was able to run with a few of the kids in the program, and it was beyond inspiring. Some were running with flip-flops and crushing the hills. When we got to the top of one, they did not want to be done. For me, it was only a glimpse, but it was clear that there was an opportunity to provide an avenue to channel all that energy, just as it has done for me.

I am very privileged. I have a life that allows me to travel to many cities and towns around the country that all have needs. My dream is to plug in with organizations like this as we travel and look to add a much-needed value. Nothing provides an opportunity like a solid foundation. Shoes provide a foundation for all makes and models of humans. If WE can help provide that for folks around the country, WE are part of a very positive impact.

Now what? Well, if we imagine that a good shoe from Ragged Mountain Running Shop is between $100 and $150, the goal would be to make the gift card for each pair $150. Ragged has a program in place with City of Promise that gives them an amazing discount. Now our gift cards will cover that already discounted cost and be able to provide even more opportunity for adults and kids alike, to have access to great shoes.

If I can raise $3/mi for 2000 miles, I would be able to provide close to 80 pairs of shoes to adults and kids who would not be afforded that opportunity otherwise. How amazing would that be!? I understand if now is not the time, or if never is the time. I respect your choice. But also, if now is the time for you, thank you, and please feel free to share this opportunity with your greater communities.

My STRAVA profile-where you can keep up with all my running activities and track the miles.