EVERY KID DESERVES A CHANCE TO CROSS THE FINISH LINE
We equip kids ages 8 to 17 with running shoes, shirts, and shorts so they can experience the thrill of their FIRST 5K, duathlon, or triathlon. No kid should be held back because of cost!
OUR MISSION
At Kids Getting Healthy 1 Day at a Time, we believe that EVERY child deserves the chance to lace up a pair of running shoes and discover what they are capable of! We help kids ages 8 to 17 who are brand-new to running get the gear they need. Proper shoes, performance shirts, and comfortable shorts so they can participate in their first 5K, duathlon, or triathlon.
Cost should NEVER stand between a child and a healthy, active lifestyle. Through generous donations, local partnerships, and an incredible community of volunteers, we make sure every kid has what they need to train, race, and cross that finish line with a smile on their face!
WHERE YOUR DONATION GOES
Every dollar makes a REAL difference. Here is exactly what your generosity provides for a child in our program!
Race Entry Fee
We cover race registration so no family has to worry about the cost. Every child gets to line up at the start and experience the thrill of race day!
2 Performance T-Shirts
Lightweight, moisture-wicking polyester athletic shirts that keep kids cool and comfortable whether they are training or racing on the big day!
2 Running Shorts
Comfortable, breathable running shorts built for movement. No kid should have to run in jeans — these shorts let them FLY!
We partner with local stores to stretch every dollar further!
OUR IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS
150+
Kids Equipped
25+
Races Supported
10+
Partner Stores
$50K+
Raised
HELP A KID CROSS THE FINISH LINE TODAY
Your donation provides running shoes, performance shirts, and comfortable shorts to a child who has never raced before. It is more than gear. It is confidence, health, and a memory that lasts a LIFETIME!
EVERY STEP BUILDS CONFIDENCE
The finish line is just the beginning. Hear from families whose lives have been changed by the power of running!
“My daughter had never run a single race before this program. On race day she was SO nervous, but when she crossed that finish line the look on her face was PURE JOY. She has not stopped running since!”
Parent of a 2024 participant
“Before this program, my son would barely go outside. Now he wakes up early to run with his friends. He earned his FIRST medal and keeps it right next to his bed. It changed EVERYTHING for him!”
Parent of a 2024 participant
“My twins were so shy they wouldn't even play at recess. After training for their first 5K with this program, they found their people. Watching them high-five other kids at the finish was the proudest moment of my life!”
Parent of two 2025 participants
MOMENTS THAT MATTER
Every photo tells a story of determination, joy, and transformation. These are the moments that keep us going!
Photos by talented photographers on Unsplash. View all credits.
UPCOMING RACES & EVENTS
Lace up and get ready! Here are the next events where our kids will be crossing finish lines!
Sprint Triathlon / Sprint Duathlon / Aqua-BikeEscape From Fort Desoto Triathlon/Duathlon
International Triathlon / Sprint Triathlon / Sprint DuathlonFinish Line Racing Multi-Sport Events
Sprint & Olympic Triathlon / DuathlonTop Gun Triathlon
OUR AMAZING SPONSORS
These incredible organizations make it possible for kids to get the gear they need. We could NOT do this without them!
SCHOOLS & TEACHERS
We work hand-in-hand with schools and educators to find the kids who need us most. If you know a child who could benefit from proper running gear, we want to hear from you!
School Partnerships
We partner directly with elementary, middle, and high schools to identify students who would benefit most from our program.
PE Teacher Referrals
Teachers and coaches can refer students who show interest in running but lack the gear to get started. It takes just ONE recommendation!
Group Participation
We help schools organize group entries for local 5Ks, duathlons, and triathlons — building teamwork and healthy habits together!
JOIN OUR TEAM!
It takes a VILLAGE to get kids across the finish line. Whether you have an hour or a whole season, there is a place for you on our team!
Event Volunteer
Help out on race day! From handing out water to cheering kids across the finish line, your energy makes ALL the difference!
Running Mentor
Share your love of running with a kid who is just getting started. Guide them through training and be there when they achieve their goals!
Fundraiser
Organize fundraising events, spread the word on social media, or rally your community. Every effort helps us reach MORE kids!
HELP A KID CROSS THE FINISH LINE TODAY
Your donation provides running shoes, performance shirts, and comfortable shorts to a child who has never raced before. It is more than gear. It is confidence, health, and a memory that lasts a LIFETIME!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Got questions? We have answers! If you do not see what you are looking for, reach out to us anytime.