Still I Run
2024Annual Report
Transforming Mental Health, One Journey at a Time
Dear Friends of Still I Run
Wow—what a year it has been! As I look back on 2024, I am blown away by the incredible growth we’ve experienced and the lives we’ve touched. This has been our biggest year yet, and it’s all thanks to YOU. Your passion, support, and belief in our mission made 2024 truly unforgettable.
One of the highlights of 2024 was the overwhelming success of our expanded scholarship programs, including serving at-risk teens in Pierce County, Washington. Seeing the transformative power of running in these young lives has been incredibly inspiring.
This year, we also embraced the power of connection. We introduced The Corral, our new monthly support group, which provides a safe and welcoming environment for open conversations about mental health. Our World Mental Health Day 5K saw participants from 41 states and 5 countries, including group runs in 15 U.S. locations and one in Canada. These efforts reinforced that running is more than just exercise—it’s a powerful tool to strengthen minds, build resilience, and foster a sense of belonging.
And let’s not forget the incredible exposure we’ve gained! Being featured twice on Good Morning America was a dream come true, shining a national spotlight on the importance of mental health and the work we do. Moments like these remind me of why we started this journey and how far we’ve come.
As we head into 2025, I feel a profound sense of excitement for what’s ahead. We have big plans to deepen our impact, form new partnerships, and bring even more people into this movement. 2024 has shown us that when we come together, we can accomplish amazing things—and I know the best is yet to come.
Thank you for running with us, believing in us, and being a part of this incredible community!
Keep running,
Sasha Wolff
Executive Director, Still I Run
2024 was a year of unprecedented growth and impact for Still I Run. Every milestone represents a step closer to our mission of breaking the stigma around mental health.
Together, we’re proving that change happens one milestone, one step, and one runner at a time.
Our Mission
Supporting, inspiring, and uniting individuals of all backgrounds and experiences in their journey to better mental health through running.
Our Vision
A world where every step is a stride towards well-being.
Key Pillars
Our core impact pillars are all supported and unified by the foundational principle of advocacy.
-
Social Impact
-
Community Engagement
-
Education & Resources
Snapshot of 2024
2024 was a year of unprecedented growth and impact for Still I Run. Every milestone represents a step closer to our mission of breaking the stigma around mental health. Together, we’re proving that change happens one milestone, one step, and one runner at a time.
We directly impacted over 2,000 individuals
-
Starting Line Scholarships awarded
-
Mental Health Runner recipeints
-
Team Still I Run runners
-
Run Chapter participants per month
-
Ambassadors
-
The Corral participants
-
individuals completed Suicide Prevention Training
-
RUN.WRITE.FIGHT letters sent
-
Runstreak participants
-
World Mental Health Day participants
Starting Line Scholarship
Changing Lives, One Scholarship at a Time
In 2024, the Starting Line Scholarship program leveled up in big ways, becoming more accessible, impactful, and inclusive than ever before. With a focus on breaking barriers and creating life-changing opportunities, we expanded the program to reach even more participants, proving that a single step can spark transformation.
I would definitely recommend this program to anyone that is struggling with their mental health and needs extra support to develop healthy habits to support their mind and body. Participating in this program has enabled me to feel more confident in myself and in my ability to prevent myself from burning out. I feel a sense of clarity and relief when it comes to what I can and can’t control. That has made such a difference for me.Marion L.
Doubling the Impact in Grand Rapids
This year, we took a bold step forward in our mission to create lasting change by expanding the Starting Line Scholarship program in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For the first time, we offered both a spring and fall cohort, doubling our impact and providing year-round support for participants.
Grand Rapids Spring Cohort standing in front of the Calder Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids Fall Cohort standing in front of Still I Run's booth.
We are deeply grateful to our partners at The Well Being Counseling and Fitness Center. Their guidance and mental health expertise play a vital role in making this program as impactful as it is!
The outcomes were nothing short of inspiring. Participants shared heartfelt stories of how running transformed their lives—helping them manage stress, build confidence, and strengthen their mental health. Every single participant (100%) reported that running significantly benefited their mental well-being, with 74% describing it as "extremely helpful."
Our 2024 Grand Rapids Starting Line Scholarship was made possible by:
The transformation didn’t stop there. By the end of the program, over 89% of participants rated their confidence in their ability to run or exercise at a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale – a remarkable leap from just 18.5% at the start. Beyond these individual gains, the program also fostered a powerful sense of community and accountability, creating a support system that continues to elevate participants’ mental and physical well-being.
This year’s success reaffirms the profound impact of combining movement with mental health support, and we’re just getting started. Together, we’re proving that every stride can lead to stronger minds and healthier lives.
Empowering At-Risk Youth in Pierce County
Thanks to a $20,000 grant from Pierce County, Washington, we were able to serve more teens in our Starting Line Scholarship youth cohort. We provided them with running gear, coaching, a race entry, and mental health resources to help youth build resilience and unlock their potential.
Before their weekly group runs, the majority of teens (48.3%) rated their stress and anxiety as "ok" or worse. However, after their runs, a remarkable shift occurred with over 93% reporting feeling "good" or "great," with 51.6% rating their mood as "great." These results highlight how running serves as a powerful tool for reducing stress and boosting well-being, underscoring the program's role in improving teens’ mental health.
I learned about the Starting Line Scholarship Program from my sister, Allison. She had completed the program last session and raved about how much she gained from it. My other sister, Marion, was interested in participating, too. I thought it would be so cool to walk this journey together and support one another. So we both applied and were accepted into the program.Ashley D.
Looking Ahead
What’s Next for SLS?
Building on the success and transformative outcomes of our in-person Starting Line Scholarship cohorts, we’re excited to take bold steps forward in 2025. We plan to increase our efforts, helping at least 50 individuals experience the life-changing benefits of running through our in-person programming.
Additionally, we’re evolving our virtual Starting Line Scholarship into an enhanced version of the Mental Health Runner program. This upgraded program will provide participants with shoes, a shirt, and a comprehensive workbook that includes training plans, mental health education, journaling space, and mental health exercises—creating a holistic approach to running for mental well-being. We anticipate being able to help at least 100 people through the new and improved Mental Health Runner Program in 2025.
Team Still I Run
Making an Impact, One Mile at a Time
Highlights
Team Still I Run participated in 6 major races and raised over $225,000 to support our programs. Partnerships with RealBuzz and The Wander Project allowed us to secure additional bibs (race registrations), making our "Bring Your Own Bib" (BYOB) format more accessible and ensuring that anyone passionate about our mission could join the team.
-
6 Major Races where Still I Run represented
including the TCS New York City Marathon. -
84 Team Still I Run members
representing 33 states & provinces across North America. -
$225K+ Raised by team members
for mental health awareness
One of the biggest highlights of Team Still I Run in 2024 was having Ginger Zee, ABC News Chief Meteorologist and Chief Climate Correspondent, join our NYC Half Marathon team. She ran her very first half marathon with us and shared about it on Good Morning America. During the race weekend, she also took the time to sit down with our Executive Director, Sasha Wolff, to talk about her mental health journey.
Stories of From Team Still I Run
As we look ahead to 2025, Team Still I Run is already planning an even bigger presence at both domestic and international races. You’ll see us again at many of the 2025 races, as well as some new ones like the Sydney Marathon (the newest Abbott World Marathon Major), Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, MN, and Big Sur in California.
With every runner and every story, we’re changing perceptions around mental health, one mile at a time.
Why Running Is My Overdraft Protection for Life's Challenges Ryan Lubben,
2024 Chicago
Marathon
Running with Resilience: Honoring Native American Heritage and Mental Health
Advocacy Pete RG Coser, Jr,
2024
New York City Marathon
Run Chapters
Building Inclusive Communities, One City at a Time
Our local chapters are communities where people come together to support one another on their mental health journeys. Regular group runs foster accountability, camaraderie, and connection, all while promoting the powerful link between physical activity and mental wellness.
In 2024, Still I Run’s local chapters grew stronger than ever, becoming hubs of connection, support, and advocacy for mental health. With the addition of five new chapters in Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Saginaw, MI, we now have 13 active chapters across the country, each led by dedicated Captains and Co-Captains who embody the spirit of our mission.
- Chicago, IL
- Clark, NJ
- Elmira/Corning, NY
- Grand Rapids, MI
- Greater Portland, OR
- Honolulu, HI
- New York City, NY
- Papillion, NE
- Philadelphia, PA
- Pittsburgh, PA
- Saginaw, MI
- South Florida
- Sparta, NJ
Fueling Growth Through Innovation
Thanks to a $25,000 grant from On Running’s Social Impact Program, the Right to Run, we took significant strides in enhancing the Run Chapter experience. This funding allowed us to start work on developing a custom attendance app, making it easier for members to stay engaged and connected. We also were able to make the move from a volunteer to a paid program coordinator to stabilize the chapter structure, ensuring a seamless experience for all participants.
Ambassador Program
A Year of Connection and Growth
The Still I Run Ambassador Program continued to thrive in 2024, bringing together passionate individuals committed to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health through running.
We had 188 Ambassadors, representing 35 different states.
Our ambassadors played a vital role in leading group runs for our World Mental Health Day 5K, participating in key events, and sharing their personal journeys to inspire others. Their stories touched lives, encouraged action, and empowered countless individuals to embark on their own running-for-mental-health journeys.
Beyond participation in events, the program fostered a strong sense of community, with many ambassadors citing it as their favorite aspect of their experience. Monthly challenges, virtual calls, and ambassador-led initiatives kept engagement high throughout the year.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Ambassador Program is set to expand, welcoming even more dedicated individuals eager to represent Still I Run. Our plans include increasing engagement opportunities, introducing new ambassador-exclusive gear, and enhancing communication strategies to foster deeper connections within our community. Additionally, we will introduce a scholarship to ensure financial barriers do not prevent anyone from joining the Ambassador program. By equipping ambassadors with the necessary tools and resources to share their stories, we will strengthen our movement, inspiring more people to prioritize mental health through running.
31
Days of Impact for Mental Wellness
May Runstreak
In May, over 800 participants embraced the power of movement for mental well-being during our annual May Runstreak. This month-long challenge, dedicated to running or walking at least one mile each day in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, not only raised a remarkable $25,000 to support our vital programs but also ignited a powerful wave of positive change.
-
800+ participants
the power of movement for mental well-being. -
$25K raised
to support our vital programs
The May Runstreak proved to be more than just a fitness challenge; it became a journey of self-discovery and a powerful tool for mental wellness. Weekly challenges and engaging emails kept participants motivated and connected, fostering a supportive community that celebrated each mile achieved. The impact of this event continues to resonate, with many participants still maintaining their daily running streaks months later, inspired by the initial challenge and the lasting benefits it brought to their mental health.
A Global Celebration of Mind and Movement
World Mental Health Day 5K
On October 10, the Still I Run community came together to celebrate World Mental Health Day and Still I Run's 8th birthday with a virtual 5K. Individuals from 41 states and 5 countries participated, with 15 in-person group runs organized by dedicated local chapters and passionate ambassadors.
-
500+ participants
-
41 states
-
5 countries
-
$21K+ raised
This vibrant event transcended borders, uniting runners in a shared commitment to mental health awareness. From bustling city streets to serene nature trails, participants laced up their shoes, embraced the spirit of community, and raised over $21,000 to support Still I Run's vital mission.
The World Mental Health Day 5K was more than just a run; it was a powerful statement. By sharing their stories and running together, participants broke down the stigma surrounding mental health, demonstrating that open conversations and collective action are crucial in building a more supportive and understanding world.
The Corral
Breaking Stigma, One Conversation at a Time
In 2024, we introduced The Corral, a free monthly Zoom support group designed to create a welcoming space for individuals to share their mental health journeys. This new initiative, which is facilitated by clinicians from Viva Mental Health and Wellness, has quickly become a cornerstone of our community, providing a safe, inclusive environment for connection and healing.
Since its launch, The Corral has helped 68 individuals, each bringing unique stories, challenges, and perspectives. This program has given people in the Still I Run community a space to feel heard, supported, and understood, all from the comfort of their own homes.
Feedback from participants has been overwhelming positive.
This is such a wonderful, supportive community where I feel safe to share my intimate emotions with others in the group. I am incredibly grateful to learn that we have a 'safe place' to discuss our mental health and seek support from wonderful facilitators that are present and available.
The Corral exemplifies the heart of Still I Run’s mission: creating opportunities for open conversations about mental health. By bringing people together in this virtual space, we’re breaking down barriers and fostering connection, even for those who may not have local access to support groups or mental health resources
Suicide Prevention Training
In addition to providing The Corral as a hub for mental health resources and support, we offered free Suicide Prevention Training through the QPR Institute. QPR — short for Question, Persuade, Refer — is a nationally recognized, evidence-based training that equips individuals with the skills to recognize the warning signs of suicide, offer support, and connect someone in crisis with professional help.
This training is a crucial tool in breaking the stigma around mental health and empowering communities to take action. In 2024, we trained 26 individuals in QPR, expanding our network of advocates who are prepared to offer life-saving support.
Expanding Our Reach
Impact Beyond Our Programs
In 2024, Still I Run made significant strides in extending our message and mission to a wider audience, reaching people beyond the direct participants in our programs. Through media coverage, digital engagement, and social media growth, we’ve seen how our efforts to raise awareness about the mental health benefits of running have had a ripple effect.
As we turn the page to 2025, Still I Run is more energized than ever to deepen our impact, reach more communities, and continue breaking the stigma around mental health. With new initiatives on the horizon, expanded events, and a growing global presence, we’re set to make this our most impactful year yet.
A New Initiative to Connect Movement and Mental Wellness
In 2025, we plan to re-launch the Mental Health Runner Program, building on insights from past participants and lessons learned through the Starting Line Scholarship virtual program. This program is a self-guided journey designed to highlight the powerful connection between movement and mental wellness, specifically geared toward individuals in lower socio-economic areas who may face barriers to accessing running and mental health resources.
At its core is a one-of-a-kind, comprehensive workbook that seamlessly integrates journaling, structured training plans and logs, and mental health education. This unique tool empowers participants to track their physical progress while also engaging in meaningful self-reflection, fostering resilience, and deepening their understanding of how running supports mental well-being.
To ensure accessibility, each participant will also receive a pair of running shoes and a Mental Health Runner shirt, removing financial barriers and equipping them with the essentials to start their journey. By providing a structured yet flexible framework, the Mental Health Runner Program makes running more accessible to anyone looking for a new, holistic approach to supporting their mental health.
Growing Our Signature Events
The May Runstreak and the World Mental Health Day 5K are at the heart of Still I Run’s mission to unite movement and mental health. In 2025, we’ll focus on expanding these events, reaching even more participants, and strengthening the connection between physical activity and mental health. By fostering deeper engagement and increasing accessibility, we aim to inspire more people to lace up their shoes and join us in making a difference.
Continuing to Build on Our Core Impact Pillars
As we look ahead, our commitment to community engagement, social impact, and education remains as strong as ever. These pillars guide everything we do, from launching new programs to supporting our runners and expanding our events.
-
Social Impact
-
Community Engagement
-
Education & Resources
In 2025, we’ll continue to create spaces for connection, foster meaningful conversations about mental health, and provide resources that empower individuals to thrive. Together, we’ll keep breaking barriers, building resilience, and changing lives—one step at a time.
Meet our team
Board of Directors
-
Michael Capiraso
Interim Chairperson
-
Laura Mosher
Interim Secretary
-
Amy Greiner
Treasurer
-
Chris Vetter
Board Member
-
Cory Anderson, LMFT
Board Member
-
Emily Battle
Board Member
-
Karen Teller
Board Member
-
Katie Evers, ESQ
Board Member
-
Katrin Deil
Board Member
-
Sean O’Leary
Board Member
Advisory Board
-
Jenny Simpson
-
Derrick Adkins
-
Scott Douglas
-
Megha Doshi
-
Lydia Gonzalez
-
Ben Saah
Staff
-
Sasha Wolff
Founder and Executive Director
-
Laura Mosher
Technical Director
-
Amber Kraus
Marketing and Communications
-
Allie Pendleton
Team Still I Run
-
Patty Morse
Team Still I Run
-
Megan Jaromin
Ambassador & Run. Write. Fight.
-
Shoshana Gordan
Run Chapters
Thank You to our corporate sponsors and partners for fueling our mission
Corporate Sponsorships and Partnerships
Your support empowered us to expand programs, launch new initiatives, and inspire countless individuals to embrace running for mental health. Together, we’re breaking stigma and changing lives, one step at a time.
