Non-profit shares program mission and objectives; first phase will launch in February 2022

(January 19, 2021) – It is Running USA’s goal to help the running industry embrace the full diversity of our existing and potential communities and ensure the products and events we create are inclusive, accessible, and welcoming.      

With this goal in mind, Running USA, the non-profit trade organization for running, is excited to announce that the organization has embarked on a multi-phase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) program.

The mission of Running USA’s DEIA program is to provide the tools, resources, and education needed to help our members and the running industry be a more inclusive community for all.

The DEIA project will become a permanent part of Running USA’s mission and services and the initial work is comprised of multiple phases. We, like many of you, understand that this is a long-term commitment, recognize we have much to learn and educate ourselves on, and is extremely important for the future growth and sustainability of our industry. Running USA is committed to this program and has begun work on the first phase of the initiative. 

Running USA will be working closely with companies and organizations that have the expertise needed to develop tools, resources and education and provide value to our members and the entire running industry. Most importantly, with the help of key partners, we will be investing in hiring subject matter experts to design and develop tools and educational programs.

Although the full scope of the project is something that will continue to evolve over time, the areas of focus we will be working on in 2022 include LBGTQ+, BIPOC and mobility/accessibility. We have already begun developing some of the partnerships needed to ensure we provide our industry with the most valuable tools from top experts in the field.

We will be announcing the full scope of phase one, including goals, objectives, and deliverables in early February 2022.

Running USA values our members’ feedback and encourage you to share your thoughts, ideas, and feedback with us as we embark on this important work. Email us at content@runningusa.org

About Running USA

Running USA is a non-profit organization committed to the growth and success of the running industry. Our promise is to deliver quality education, exceptional industry content, valuable research and ample networking opportunities. We connect. We support. We educate. Running USA brings together an entire community. As the voice of endurance running, we’re all about connection and collaboration. Whether we’re connecting race organizers with sponsors, partners and athletes, or connecting our members with vital information and best practices, our goal is to raise the profile of running and help more people get more out of it. For more information, visit runningusa.org