Mile in My Shoes

Mile in My Shoes is anchored by six running teams based at shelters and re-entry centers across the Twin Cities area, as well as one Distance Training Team composed of Mentor volunteers and Alumni Members. MiMS teams run 2-3 times per week, with runs starting from each shelter or housing facility. There are three cycles per year, each lasting 12 weeks. The MiMS season begins in March and ends in November. MiMS outfits all new runners with full running gear and shoes, and covers the cost for all training and race expenses throughout the season. Members also receive incentives as they hit various milestones, including additional gear and race entries. During 2022, Mile in My Shoes had a total of 169 new Member/program participants, 15 Alumni participating in the Distance Team, several dozen Alumni Members participating with other teams, and over 150 volunteer Run Mentors. Mile in My Shoes' positive outcomes include: 98% of Resident Members report improved health after participating in the program. 98% of Resident Members feel more connected to their community after running with Mile in My Shoes. 92% of volunteer Run Mentors feel more motivated to do more for, or with, people experiencing homelessness.