The Mind Miles Initiative

We move for more than miles—we move for the mind. Because your mental health matters. Because you matter.

 

Help us raise awareness and support for mental health right here in our community.

The Why?

 

The most important race we’ll ever run is the race for a healthy mind.

At Root Runners, we believe movement is medicine—a simple, powerful tool for building resilience, clarity, and strength. A healthy mind doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a journey, a daily practice, and one worth fighting for every single day.

That belief is why we created Root Runners and why we opened our doors—not just as a retail store, but as a home base for our community’s mental and physical growth. Our mission is to educate, inspire, and empower people to experience the life-changing benefits of movement—not only for the body, but for the mind.

Being active isn’t about pace, distance, or perfection. It’s about showing up in whatever way your body allows—walking, running, or a mix of both. No excuses, just movement. Because every step is a step toward being physically stronger, mentally clearer, and emotionally healthier—for yourself and for those around you.

Let us help you help yourself. Join the movement. Step into the Why. Because your mind matters. And so do you.

The Impact

It's time to take action for yourself physically and mentally. Together, let's help bring awareness to mental health. The truth is, our county faces a critical gap: the ratio of residents to mental health providers is 400:1, compared to 320:1 statewide. That means too many people who need help simply can't get it.

That's why each year, we select a local nonprofit organization who is making an impact on mental health right here in our community. For every mile logged in our Mind Miles Challenge from September 10 through October 10 (World Mental Health Day), Root Runners will donate $0.05 per mile. Every mile counts, every mile is impactful and every mile can make a difference in someone's life. Maybe, you might even just see the impact in your own life.

This year, we have selected The Fund Racing Alliance, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting mental health through movement. Our goal is to provide the Fund Racing Alliance with funds to cover six free therapy sessions for individuals who otherwise could not afford essential care. Whether you're walking or running, every step is more than exercise—it's hope, healing, and tangible support for someone in need.

To learn more about The Fund Racing Alliance and all that they're doing check them out here → https://thefundracingalliance.org

The Support

We would be honored to have you or your business join us as a supporter of this initiative by matching our $0.05-per-mile donation or choosing your own contribution amount. In our 2024 Mind Miles Initiative, more than 100 participants collectively logged 6,301.82 miles. Root Runners proudly donated $315 to 403 Reasons to Run, our 2024 nonprofit of choice. Together, we can send a powerful message that we are running alongside our community, advocating for mental health, and building a stronger future—one mile at a time.

If you are interested in getting involved, please reach out to me directly at [email protected].

Get Involved and Get Moving

1

Sign Up & Start Logging Miles

Join us on Challenge Hound and track your miles from September 10 — October 10. For every mile logged, we'll donate $0.05 to The Fund Racing Alliance—every step makes a difference!

Join Here!
2

Get Motivated & Support

Bring your family, connect with new friends, set a personal goal, or simply join in for the fun. Participate in a local race or enjoy your own run—it's an easy (and rewarding) way to rack up miles while supporting a great cause.

Whether you're chasing a race or simply logging miles, we've made it easy—check out our list below:

Races

Branchville 5K

When: September 21, 2025
Location: Selective Insurance Recreation Fields, 40 Wantage Ave, Branchville, NJ 07826
Time: 10:30 AM
Click Here

Tunnels to Towers 5K

When: September 28, 2025
Location: Coffey Park, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Time: 9:30 AM
Click Here

Park Run Free 5K

When: Every Saturday
Location: Evergreen Park, 14 Kennedy Road, Green Township, NJ 07821
Time: 9:00 AM
Click Here

Local Run Groups

Walk Move Run Club

When: Every Monday
Location: Sheridans Parking Lot
Time: 6:30 PM
Click Here

Lost Shakers of Salt Trail Runners

When: Tuesday nights
Location: Location of run is posted on Facebook weekly
Time: Evenings
Click Here

Morris County Trail Runners

When: Varies
Location: Location of run is posted on Facebook weekly
Time: Varies
Click Here
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