Become A

Volunteer Mentor

Our mentors, known as Running Leaders, are the heart and soul of our program, providing essential mentorship, support, and training to our students.

Sign Up Here

Make A Meaningful Impact On The Lives Of Young People In Our Community

Students Run Philly Style is the only mentoring program in Philadelphia that helps youth between the ages 12 and 18 succeed in life through distance running.

Students Run Philly Mentors, called Running Leaders, provide ongoing mentorship, support, & training for our students. They are truly the soul of the Students Run Philly Style Program. Adults 21 and over with a heart for mentorship and the ability to make a significant time commitment should consider becoming a volunteer mentor. Running experience is helpful but not required. Running Leaders may start teams of their own or may join teams that need support.

Disclaimer: the enrollment period will start back up again in August 2026. Fill out the form if you’re interested and we will get back to you!

Co-Lead 2-3 practices a week (typically after school hours from 3-5pm and Saturday mornings)

Attend mandatory Running Leader training

Complete SRPS’ online training course

Obtain PA state background checks (SRPS can help you with these)

Running Leader Expectations

“The biggest thing was my coaches. They always showed up, at the full marathon, at practice. I had adults who wanted to support my mission and goals. My coaches are lifelong mentors.”

Adrian A., SRPS Class of 2019
"It wasn't always about crossing the finish line, it was everything leading up to it that taught me the most. Through SRPS, I learned that difficult things don't always need to be dealt with overnight. I've applied that same mindset to my career, developing relationships with friends, family, I've just learned to take it mile by mile."

Marta R., SRPS Class of 2011
"The first race was the first time I realized what I was doing was bigger than I could have imagined. When you start the season, it's just you and your team. You're training, and it's fun, but when you see every single Students Run team in the whole city, you realize you’re part of such a big community."

Thina C.. SRPS Class of 2011

View Our Team Locations

Interested in becoming a volunteer mentor? Sign up here!

By completing this interest form, you’re taking the first step toward making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people in our community.

This form will help us learn more about your interests, availability, and how we can best match you with a team or support you in starting your own. Whether you have running experience or are new to the sport, your dedication and passion for mentorship are what truly matter.

SRPS promotes equitable and inclusive participation for youth and mentors in programming and events. That means all transgender and non-binary students and mentors are encouraged to enroll in our program and participate in our events consistent with their gender identity, no questions asked.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to inspire and be inspired. We look forward to learning more about you and how you can contribute to our mission of empowering youth through running and mentorship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions? Ready to start or join a team?

Contact: Jarrett Boyd, Program Manager at jboyd@studentsrunphilly.org.

Students Run Philly Style is for all students in 6th grade and up.
Students and running leaders should commit to a full season (9 months) of running 1-3 times per week with the team. Teams run 1 race in the fall and 3-4 races in the spring.
No! Students and running leaders do not need any prior running experience to join a team. We will provide your with running shoes/gear and a training plan to get you started.
SRPS is completely, 100% FREE. As a SRPS participant, you will receive FREE race registrations, transportation, running gear, and more!