Students Run Philly Style is a Philadelphia-based nonprofit that pairs students with adult mentors to train together for races. We provide free, structured programming that supports young people through consistent training, relationships, and access to new opportunities. Through running, students build confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging over time.
Annual impact:
450+
mentors
60+
schools
48
zip codes
1,500+
students
Our Mission
Students Run Philly Style empowers students to build confidence, set and achieve goals, and strengthen their communities through mentorship and long-distance running. 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 dedicated support of a caring mentor, and the thrill of its ultimate achievement results in a student who knows anything is possible.
Our Program
Students and mentors train up to 10 hours weekly March through November to run the Philadelphia Half or Full Marathon, or September through June to run the 10-mile Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run.
MileUp
In partnership with the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, MileUp applies the SRPS mentoring model to offer an evidence-based diversion option for youth facing delinquency charges.
OUTPace
SRPS supports inclusive programming for LGBTQ+ students, mentors, and allies, providing affirming spaces, resources and training, plus gender-affirming gear and Pride SWAG to support visibility and belonging
Run With Us
Run With Us
Become a Charity Runner
Run for Philly's Future
Dedicate your training by fundraising for SRPS and run with purpose for Philadelphia's young people. Learn how to become a charity runner with SRPS here.
Become A Volunteer Mentor
Our mentors, known as Running Leaders, are the heart and soul of our program, providing our students with essential mentorship, support, and training.
Become A Student Runner
If you are a 6th - 12th grade student who lives in/or attends school in Philadelphia, you are eligible to participate in Students Run Philly Style! SRPS’ program is free to all enrolled.
Students Run Philly Style is an equitable partner of the Philadelphia Distance Run Half Marathon and 5K (PDR). Proceeds from the PDR are reinvested back into SRPS programming, amplifying the organization’s history of having a positive impact in Philadelphia’s running community. Hundreds of SRPS runners participate in PDR events in September each year.
NATIONALLY-RECOGNIZED BY:
