"I was making the space for myself and my health to be a priority. It was an empowering journey."

For one busy working mom, the decision to apply for the Starting Line Scholarship wasn't just about getting active, it was about reclaiming space for herself. After watching her daughter participate in Girls on the Run, Stefania was inspired to lace up her own shoes again and rediscover the runner inside her. 

"I was a runner in high school, but as an adult, I had no relationship with running. I wanted the endurance and energy to keep up with my daughter, and this program felt like the perfect place to start." 

Reigniting a Passion and Prioritizing Mental Health

With the structure of the Starting Line Scholarship, Stefania found the spark she needed to start again. And more importantly, to stick with it. 

"The accountability factor was a game changer! As a working mom, I was constantly putting my own needs last. This program gave me the structure and encouragement to stop pushing it off and make space for movement, health, and healing."

The program helped her build not just stamina, but self-trust, showing her that even a small window of time carved out for running could shift everything. 

Community, Encouragement, and Support

Beyond the gear and the coaching plan, it was the community that truly made the experience special.

"The check-ins with other participants, the honesty, and encouragement made running approachable for everyone. This group is really the best!"

With support from The Well Being for mental health, personalized training, and a peer community that cheered each other on every step of the way, she no longer felt like she had to do it alone. 

"It is way less intimidating than it sounds. It meets people where they're at, physically or mentally. Everyone is supportive and encouraging!"

What's Next?

After completing the program, she's not slowing down. Her eyes are not set on new goals, from running a 5K in under 30 minutes to possibly completing her first 10K in the spring. 

"The runner's high is a real thing! I'm hooked."

She continues to recommend the Starting Line Scholarship to others in her life,- especially those who feel like they're stuck or unsure where to begin. 

Why the Starting Line Scholarship Matters

For anyone juggling the weight of life, parenting, work, and mental health, this program is a gentle, empowering invitation to put yourself back on the priority list. It's not about speed or perfection. it's about progress. It's about showing up—even if just for yourself. 

And it's about knowing that wherever your starting line may be, you don't have to cross it alone. 

Ready to take your first step?

Learn more or apply for the next Starting Line Cohort. 

Or share this with someone who might need the nudge. You never know whose life it might change.