We know that getting started running can be difficult, intimidating, or even too expensive.
We also know that it doesn't have to be that way.
Still I Run x The Well Being
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Running is a valuable tool to help manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. In fact, studies show that even just 15 minutes of running can reduce the risk of major depression. We know that getting started running can be intimidating or even too expensive. That’s why Still I Run and The Well Being are coming together to offer the Mental Health Runner program, right here in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The Scholarship
Get started on your running journey with us.
The program, which takes place in Grand Rapids, Michigan, strives to remove any barriers blocking you from running for your mental health, and provide you with the motivation and accountability to keep you going. We’ll provide you with shoes and running gear, coaching, fitness classes, and entry into a 5K we'll all run together. Our goal here is to help get you to the starting line of a lifelong journey of running for your mental health.​
How it Works
Starting March 30th and over the course of 12 weeks, you’ll be working alongside other individuals as you all start your journey of running while actively working on other things that improve your mental health. You, your classmates, and representatives from The Well Being and Still I Run will meet twice weekly to exercise, run, and attend group therapy.
Fitness Class
On Wednesdays, you’ll meet at The Well Being where a certified fitness instructor will lead a boot-camp style fitness class from 5:45 - 6:15 pm.
Support Group
On Wednesdays after the fitness class, the mental health group portion starts which will be led by a therapist from The Well Being from 6:15 - 7:15pm.
Group Runs
On Saturdays, you’ll do group runs with a certified run coach as we all train together for the Inaugural SIR & TWB 5K in June.
What You Get
Strength Training Coach
Run Coach
Training Plan
Running Gear (Shirt, Shoes, Shorts, Watch)
Private Text Group
Free Entry into the LMCU Bridge Run 5K
Saturday Group Runs
Wednesday Night Fitness Classes
Professional Mental Health Support Group
Celebratory Brunch after the race!
Who can apply?
This program is open to anyone in the West Michigan area. Selected participants are required to meet with us twice a week for 12 weeks. Please see the Important Program dates outlined to the right. We are specifically looking for individuals who are not experienced runners (or it’s been a while since you’ve run and need help getting back into it) and are currently struggling to some degree with your mental health. You must also be interested in utilizing running as a tool to help improve your mental health, and able to commit to attending the fitness classes and group runs every week.​
Important Program Dates
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December 15, 2025- Applications Open
February 12, 2026 - Applications Close
February 18, 2026 - Applicants notified of status
March 26, 2026 - Orientation
March 30, 2026 - Start of program
April 1, 2026 - Start of Wednesday night classes
April 4, 2026 - Start of Saturday group runs
June 20, 2026 - 5K and Celebratory Brunch!