Local communities are at the heart of Fleet Feet and everything we work to achieve. Whether it’s hosting group runs, fundraising for local charities and organizations, or forming national partnerships, Fleet Feet believes we make the world better by building and supporting strong running communities. We continue to build on the good work that happens at our 180 locally owned and operated locations every day, through our charitable arm, Do the Run Thing.

The mission of Do the Run Thing is to create and nurture sustainable running communities that improve the health and happiness of the overall community. Our key areas of focus are:

  • Youth-based initiatives that inspire the next generation to stay active
  • Under-served communities in need of mentorship, programming and support
  • Community partners and events that align with our mission through action, initiative and fundraising
  • Public works projects that create and improve access to safe greenways, pathways and trails

A LOOK BACK AT 2020

2020 was a year of immense challenge. But it was also an opportunity to find strength, look inward, and come together to support and encourage one another.

Because of you, our running communities, our partners, and the amazing brands we work with, we were able to donate almost $70,000 back to organizations who further the mission and purpose of Do the Run Thing, including:

  • $44,000 to Girls on the Run
  • $11,000 to the Black Girls RUN! Foundation
  • $9,000 to the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund
  • $5,000 to Latinos Run

And we’ve only just begun. We ask you to join us as we continue to further our mission to strengthen more running communities, empower more people, and spread even more health, happiness and kindness wherever our running shoes might take us. Learn more about our Do the Run Thing partners, their accomplishments and goals, and how you can get involved and give back.

GIRLS ON THE RUN

Girls on the Run (GOTR) is a life-changing program for 8- to 13-year-old girls that promotes girl empowerment by teaching life skills through lessons and running.

In today’s unpredictable world, the strategies learned at GOTR are more important than ever. With in-person and remote programming now available, GOTR remains dedicated to creating a world where every girl can thrive.

Fleet Feet is the official specialty retail / sporting goods partner of SoleMates, a GOTR program that empowers adults to choose an athletic activity or event of their choice and fundraise to provide the opportunity for more girls to participate in Girls on the Run.

LEARN MORE

BLACK GIRLS RUN!

Since 2009, Black Girls RUN! (BGR!) has encouraged Black women to make fitness and healthy living a priority. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 80 percent of Black women are overweight. BGR! focuses on programming, resources and community built around running with the goal of lowering that percentage.

Get involved with Black Girls RUN! by joining a chapter near you, or consider a donation to the Black Girls RUN! Foundation so they can continue to provide programming to more communities.

LEARN MORE

CIVIL RIGHTS RACE SERIES

The Civil Rights Race Series is the first of its kind to develop races along the U.S. Civil Rights Trail honoring and highlighting major cities and historic events that took place during the civil rights movement. Race organizers create events that commemorate pivotal Civil Rights moments and places through education, wellness and economic development.

Open to cyclists, walkers and runners, the race series includes the Selma to Montgomery Relay and Bike Ride, the Civil Rights Race Series Memphis "I Am A Human" 5k and Half Marathon, and the Riding Through the Flames of Freedom Race in Anniston, AL.

LEARN MORE

LATINOS RUN

Latinos Run is a trailblazing running platform serving a global Latino audience of over 25,000 runners from beginners to elite athletes. These are runners who are passionate about living a healthier life.

As a minority-based organization, Latinos Run has opened the door to highlight a community that largely is ignored in the health and fitness industry. Their goal is to inspire more individuals of color to change the way the fitness industry looks, celebrate diversity and empower others to get inspired by the journey.

LEARN MORE
A group of young runners cheer during Students Run Chicago practice

Creating Better Communities Through the Power of Running

It’s only natural that, as a running brand, it’s in our DNA to change lives, too. Now, we’re taking that commitment even further with our new charitable arm, Do the Run Thing.
Culture
A musician plays at an On Art Run event in Washington, DC

On Uses Art Runs to Build Communities, Give Back

On is serious about art and design--it shows in their shoes. But they are also serious about giving back to nonprofit art organizations around the country.
Culture
Brooks professional runner Josh Kerr runs with high school athletes

Through Booster Club, Brooks Gives Seasons Back to Schools

The Brooks Booster Club outfits cash-strapped programs with gear and money to keep young athletes running.
Culture