Running Medicine

Running Medicine is a program of Native Health Initiative that responds to high rates of diabetes, obesity, and stress among Indigenous youth and families by offering free or low‑cost, family‑friendly running spaces that honor indigenous culture and center movement as medicine. Running Medicine provides inclusive walking, running, HIIT, yoga, and Zumba classes for all ages, as well as high-quality coaching for our USATF youth track and cross-country teams. 

We have four Running Medicine chapters throughout New Mexico such as in Downtown Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Gallup, and Acoma-Laguna Pueblo, New Mexico. Last year, Running Medicine served 843 youth and family registrants, representing 39 U.S. federally recognized tribes, one Canadian First Nation, and 15 Indigenous tribes from outside the U.S.

Examples of areas your donation can make an impact:

• Equipment & Gear: Purchasing essential track and cross-country supplies — starting blocks, trail and track running shoes, and basic athletic attire — for youth participants who lack access to proper gear.
• Registration & Event Access: Covering 100% of race entry fees for youth participants and waiving fees so families can compete together at our four annual community 5K events.
• Infrastructure & Chapter Growth: Outfitting our current chapters — and supporting expansion into new sites — with trail safety materials, shade structures, mobile check-in supplies, and hydration stations.

By eliminating economic barriers to equipment and competition, this grant ensures youth across Native and local New Mexico communities can train safely, build physical literacy, and thrive through organized sport.