Gulf Coast Runner’s Youth Development Program

Started in 2011, Gulf Coast Runner’s youth development program helps take young cross-country and track athletes to the next level. Practices for runners are held three times a week, and while there is a fee to participate, those with limited funds can apply for scholarships. Donations go to funding scholarships and paying program expenses.

For more info, visit: gcrunner.org.

Justin’s Place Drug and Alcohol Recovery Program

In the past few years, this faith-based, yearlong recovery program has incorporated athletics into its rehabilitation process. “The guys get gym memberships and they go three times a week and there’s rec time where they play basketball or tennis,” says Robert Burns, the director of communications for Saint Matthew’s House, which houses the program. “They even go on a 30-mile bike ride during their time here,” he adds. While you can’t earmark your funds directly for athletics, Burns says that the way the center’s financials are set up, 100 percent of donations go directly to the programs, with administrative costs being paid through grants.

For more info, visit www.stmatthewshouse.org.