From the Couch to the Course: How the Starting Line Scholarship Sparked a New Chapter

"Without this program and the people involved in helping me achieve growth, I would have been at home, sitting on my couch, afraid to get up and try." - Victoria Gill

That quote sums up what the Starting Line Scholarship is all about—creating a safe, supportive, and empowering space for individuals to begin something they may have never imagined possible: running for their mental health. 

For one former participant, Victoria, applying for the Starting Line Scholarship was a leap of faith, a decision to challenge herself, try something different, and take the first step in a new direction. With no regular relationship to running, she had only run a 5K once before. But when she saw the opportunity to train with support and care for her mental health, she knew it was the perfect moment to dive in. 

A Journey of Self-Discovery

"I developed new relationships with people. I developed an understanding of myself, knowing I can do things I thought I couldn't do before."

Through each training run, Victoria discovered so much more than endurance. She gained confidence, clarity, connection, and the motivation to keep pushing forward. Every mile helped build strength, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. 

She credits her growth to the holistic support offered through the program, everything from running shoes and personalized training to mental health support, check-ins, and a tight-knit peer community. 

The Power of Showing Up

The most meaningful part of the experience? Development, in every sense of the word. 

"I learned how to push myself. I developed strength. This program gave me what I needed to try."

That sense of momentum continues even after the scholarship program ends. Running has now become a hobby, something she plans to stick with long-term. The program sparked a transformation that reached far beyond the finish line. 

At Still I Run, we believe everyone deserves access to the healing power of running for mental health. Whether you're just getting started or finding your way back, the Starting Line Scholarship provides the structure, tools, and community to help you thrive, at your own pace. 

"Running has now become my hobby."

That one sentence captures the impact of the program. From someone who once doubted they could even start, to someone who now proudly calls running a part of her life. That's the power of a supportive start.