Following a 2011 hospitalization for depression and anxiety, Sasha Wolff gravitated towards running in addition to therapy and medication as part of her mental health toolkit. After discovering the science-backed benefits of running for mental health, she wanted to connect with others that did the same, but came up empty when it came to looking for an existing organization in the U.S.
So, she created it herself. That’s when Still I Run was born, starting off as a Facebook page on October 10, 2016—World Mental Health Day.
“I didn’t expect anything to come of it, but over the years, it transitioned into a national nonprofit that works to promote the benefit of running for mental health and well-being so that more people can live healthier lives,” said Wolff, who serves as the nonprofit’s Executive Director. “Today, we serve thousands across the U.S. through free programming, because we never want money to be a barrier in doing something positive for their mental health! Our programming is all about getting people the resources and education they need to start running for well-being.”
In honor of Still I Run celebrating 10 years, they’re hosting A Decade in Motion, a 10th anniversary fundraiser event at City Built Brewing Company on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 that includes a silent auction, a custom beer and non-alcoholic drink, and an all-ages “Build Your Own Mental Health Runner” commemorative LEGO bar, thanks to Bricks and Minifigs Grandville. The event will also see the announcement of the organization’s 2027 strategic plan, along with some impact stories from individuals who’ve benefitted from Still I Run’s programming and offerings. Admission is $10 and benefits Still I Run.
Wolff says the event is a must-attend to add to your calendar, as it’s a great opportunity to learn more about Still I Run, their mission, and the impact they’re making.
“Mental health is something we all have, and we know that running and movement can be powerful tools, whether someone is navigating a mental illness, going through a difficult season, or simply looking for a way to feel more grounded and calmer,” Wolff said. “But the evening is about more than learning about our mission! We want people to genuinely have fun. Our Silent Auction features a variety of exciting items, including running-related packages, Kate Spade jewelry, gift cards, Broadway Grand Rapids tickets, and more.”
When the Still I Run team created this fundraiser, Wolff said they intentionally wanted it to feel different from a traditional nonprofit event.
“This isn’t a black-tie affair. It’s an opportunity to come as you are, connect with others, have fun, and learn more about how Still I Run is changing the conversation around mental health through running,” she said. “Participation in this event directly helps Still I Run continue offering free programming to people who want to use running as a tool to support their mental health. As more people learn about our organization, we’re seeing more individuals than ever who want to get started running for their mental health, and we want cost to be as little of a barrier as possible.”
Running, Wolff emphasized, is one of the most accessible tools for supporting mental well-being.
“Funds raised through this event help us provide the resources, education, encouragement, and community people across the U.S. need to take that first step and keep going,” she shared. “By attending, you’re helping us reach more people and ensure they have access to programs that remind them they don’t have to navigate their mental health journey alone.”
The event’s timing is no accident, as it also coincides with Wolff’s creation of National Run for Mental Health Week—a new annual initiative launched by Still I Run that will take place during the seven days leading up to World Mental Health Day on October 10. The initiative aims to bring greater awareness to the powerful connection between running and mental health.
“It’s free and people can sign up at our National Run for Mental Health Week page! Starting on September 26, people can gear up for the week by joining our challenge on Strava, and throughout the week, we’ll host several activations designed to engage communities and encourage more people to experience running as a tool for supporting their mental well-being,” Wolff explained. “This will include A Decade in Motion, events hosted by Still I Run Chapters and Ambassadors across the country, and a presence at the Chicago Marathon. Our goal is to make National Run for Mental Health Week something that grows year after year, helping more people understand that running can be an accessible and meaningful way to care for their mental health.”
When reflecting upon the last 10 years, Wolff is most proud that her nonprofit is doing truly life-saving work.
“I never set out in life to be the founder and leader of a national organization,” Wolff said. “The organization just grew out of the simple need to connect with other people that ran for mental health. I poured my everything into Still I Run while also being a mom and wife. And luckily, I’ve found such great cheerleaders and mentors to help me grow this organization from grassroots to legacy built.”
Looking ahead, Wolff hopes to expand the reach of Still I Run to an even larger scale.
“It’s a big, bold move, but we want to impact at least 50,000 people by 2029,’ Wolff shared. “We will keep showing up and growing our programs and initiatives to help reach as many people as possible while also trying to change the way America thinks about running. This sport is more than just looking a certain way or performing at a certain level. It’s something anyone can use to improve their mental health and well-being.”
Learn more about Still I Run and A Decade in Motion.
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
Photo courtesy of Sasha Wolff.