Since 2004, Students Run Philly Style has supported more than 16,000 young people, powered by the deep dedication, service, and care of more than 2,000 volunteer adult mentors.

As the program has grown, our board, staff, supporters and friends have forged partnerships that provided infrastructure and inspiration. Together, this community has helped Students Run Philly Style grow and thrive.

The mission of Students Run Philly Style is to transform students’ lives through mentorship over miles of long-distance running and achievement.

What We Do

Students Run Philly Style transforms students’ lives through running and mentorship. We pair volunteer mentors with teams of students to inspire them to push themselves further than they ever imagined. Their goal: the completion of a full or a half marathon. The courage and effort required, the unfailing support of a caring mentor, and the thrill of its ultimate achievement results in a student who knows anything is possible.

Our Program

Using our marathon model, students and mentors train up to 10 hours weekly March through November to run the Philadelphia Half or Full Marathon in November.

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MileUp

In partnership with the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, MileUp uses the SRPS mentoring model to offer an evidence-based diversion option for youth facing delinquency charges.

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OUTPace

OUTPace is an inclusive component of SRPS for LGBTQ+ students, mentors, and allies, providing affirming spaces, resources and training, plus gender-affirming gear and Pride SWAG to support visibility and belonging

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Mile Markers

Empowering young people through running and mentorship since 2004

  • 2004

    Heather McDanel founded SRPS, inspired by Students Run LA, with support from the Independence Foundation. The program's inaugural runners completed the Philadelphia Marathon weekend.

  • 2008

    SRPS developed its core values of Courage, Effort, and Respect and its signature "Who are we?" cheer as the program welcomed more students, mentors and staff.

  • 2010

    SRPS hosted its first race, the Gener8tion Run, an 8K to celebrate students and mentors and the program’s relationship-building across generations.

  • 2015

    SRPS united over 1,000 students and mentors at the Broad Street Run, reaching neighborhoods citywide and strengthening its partnership with the School District of Philadelphia.

  • 2021

    SRPS partnered with Philadelphia Runner and Runhouse to relaunch the Philadelphia Distance Run, welcoming the next generation of runners and advancing equity for LGBTQ+ runners at all levels.

  • 2024

    SRPS celebrates 20 years, impacting over 14,000 youth and mentors. Recognition of its restorative justice work has reached national platforms like the Brooks Future Run and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.