Every Mile Matters: A Special Runstreak Partnership Supporting Mental Wellness

This May, something powerful happened behind the walls of a mental health hospital in Ohio—something that reminded us exactly why Still I Run exists.

For the first time, a group of long-term psychiatric patients were invited to participate in our Runstreak Challenge. With support from hospital staff and the Still I Run community, these individuals laced up—some for short hallway laps, others for supervised outdoor walks—and joined 965 others across the country in logging miles for mental health.

We’re honored to share a glimpse into what this partnership looked like—and why it meant so much.

Making Movement Accessible for All

This wasn’t your typical running challenge. Patients at the hospital have varying levels of mobility and access—some can only walk within their unit, others are able to move with supervision, and a few are approved for outdoor activity with staff. But thanks to the hospital’s thoughtful planning and incredible staff, the challenge was adapted to meet everyone where they were.

Walking groups were created both on and off the units. Pedometers and printable mileage trackers were distributed to help participants see their progress. For many, this was more than just a physical challenge—it was an opportunity to reclaim agency, celebrate progress, and experience the pride of working toward a goal.

One hospital staff member shared, “Some patients lost weight, while others who often lack motivation to do much started walking just to get a bracelet.” Staff even began joining in, walking alongside patients on the patios and helping create a sense of shared movement and mutual encouragement.

More Than Miles: A Movement for Mental Health

Still I Run Ambassadors volunteered to make inspirational bracelets for patients who participated in the 2025 Runstreak for Mental Health.

For participants in this program, Runstreak was about more than just logging miles—it was about connection, purpose, and the chance to be part of something bigger than their everyday environment. Having the opportunity to work toward a shared goal, alongside others across the country, was incredibly meaningful.

Still I Run volunteers also wrote handwritten letters to each patient who particpated.

To support and celebrate their efforts, each participant received a bracelet handmade by Still I Run ambassadors, along with bookmarks and postcards featuring messages of encouragement. At the end of the challenge, every finisher was awarded a certificate of completion and a handwritten note from a volunteer—recognition that celebrated their progress and reminded them they are not alone.

The volunteer effort was coordinated by SIR Ambassador Karrie, who brought together a team of supporters from around the country to make each gesture personal and uplifting.

"I think everybody really enjoyed doing the bracelets...it was a lot of fun,” she said.

These tokens of encouragement served as tangible proof of each participant’s strength and dedication—and a reminder that their efforts matter.

One unit even created a special “High Stepper” certificate for individuals who logged more than 10,000 steps regularly—an incredible feat considering the limited mobility and controlled environment many of these patients live in. As one staff member put it, “Getting 10,000 steps in on a regular basis in here is pretty ambitious and amazing.”

A Creative Approach to Stigma Reduction

The hospital also introduced an inspiring twist: For each patient who completed the challenge, a staff member could sponsor a $31 donation to Still I Run—symbolizing the 31 days of movement and supporting our mission to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.

This "walk-and-sponsor" model offered patients a tangible way to give back, even when financial contributions weren’t possible. It turned effort into impact, giving participants a chance to be advocates for mental health awareness themselves.

Staff emphasized the power of this connection. “We are very proud of our patients and we could not have done this with the response we have seen without the support of all the Still I Run ambassadors.”

Continuing the Conversation

Throughout the month, the hospital hosted group conversations about the connection between movement and mental health. Staff encouraged patients to think about how walking could be a regular part of their wellness routines and gave them tools to track how movement affects mood and motivation.

The letters of encouragement were distributed near the end of the challenge and sparked powerful reactions. Though we’re keeping those personal responses private, staff shared that the excitement and appreciation were deeply felt across the units.

These aren’t just steps. They’re strides toward healing, hope, and visibility for individuals often left out of wellness conversations.

A Simple Start. A Lasting Impact.

We’re so grateful to the hospital team for making this partnership possible, and to our ambassadors and volunteers for showing up in such a personal way.

At Still I Run, we believe in the power of movement—on every level and in every setting. This Runstreak reminded us that sometimes the most meaningful miles aren’t the fastest or the farthest. They’re the ones walked with courage, with support, and with the hope of better days ahead.

To the participants who joined us from inside the hospital: thank you. Your strength, your steps, and your stories are an inspiration to us all.