This summer, Just in Time for Foster Youth launched JIT Fit Club, a pilot running group designed to build community while supporting both physical and mental well-being. 

For their first meet-up, JIT participants gathered at San Diego River Park where they were given an introductory lesson on running form, warm ups and stretching by professional trainer Josh Kober of Glide Training. 

With a firm foundation in place to prevent injury and improve technique, participants were let loose to complete a timed 1 mile run – a baseline for future training. The group will meet and train weekly for three months, and their efforts will culminate in a 3-5k race.

JIT Participant Domenic runs a baseline mile for the launch of JIT Fit Club

The running group is a collaboration between longtime Just in Time volunteer and marathon runner Rob Furey and JIT staff member and lived-expert Omar Chavez. Chavez took up running in college when he joined the track team at SDSU. 

“I have ADHD, so sitting through a workshop can be hard,” Chavez shared. “Running helps me connect with people because you’re pushing through something together. It’s also a healing tool. If I have a problem, I’ll go for a run without music, and I usually come back with solutions.”

Research supports Chavez’s experience. Studies have found that running for as little as 15 minutes a day is associated with a 26% lower risk of major depression, making it a simple yet powerful tool for improving mental health. Combined with the encouragement of a supportive community, every run becomes an opportunity to strengthen both body and mind.

Want to learn more about JIT Fit Club? Contact Omar Chavez: Omar@jitfosteryouth.org