Chicago Run

Running Mates - The Running Mates program utilizes running and physical activity to improve social and emotional well-being of young people in middle school and high school. This program provides an inclusive and non-competitive environment in which young people work towards completing a local 5k race, while developing a positive self-image, promoting goal setting, and building relationships with peers and positive mentors. The Summer Strides season of Running Mates brings youth and community members together in a safe and healthy environment to develop their physical and mental health during the summer months.Chicago Run partners with the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center (JTDC) to bring an all gender running program for participants from all living units in the facility between the ages of 12-17. Each season, participants are provided appropriate running shoes during practices while they train for a race hosted inside the facility. Chicago Run trains JTDC Recreational staff in trauma informing coaching techniques to help facilitate practices.LACE (Leadership, Action, Community, Endurance) Up! is a program designed for Chicago Run program alumni who are now in high school or college. This program provides opportunities for volunteering, career exploration, and paid peer coaching and mentoring (Junior Coaches). Participants develop leadership skills while continuing to build their physical and social and emotional well-being.