Running Strong, located in Alexandria, VA, provides American Indian communities with food, water, basic relief, emergency assistance and support services for needy youth and their families. America’s original people, Native Americans, are also its poorest people. Many of the poorest counties in our nation are located on Indian reservations. Our focus on youth programs fosters change across all age groups and entire communities. We are committed to preserving the traditions, languages and sanctity of Native American and Indigenous communities. Beginning with the simple act of bringing water to the people of Pine Ridge, Running Strong’s involvement now reaches dozens of Native communities in more than 30 states. Our focus areas include critical needs, organic gardens and food, culture and language preservation, emergency assistance, schools and youth support, and seasonal programs. Running Strong implements our own programs as well as supports independent groups who align with our mission, such as nonprofits, community centers, and grassroots projects. Running Strong for American Indian Youth was co-founded in 1986 by Billy Mills (Oglala Lakota) and Gene Krizek. Billy’s dream to give back to his home community of Pine Ridge Indian Reservation — and Native communities across the country — was supported by Gene’s extensive experience in Congress, foreign service, and the US Air Force. Together, they began to forge the longstanding partnerships across Indian Country that still creates sustainable change today, and into tomorrow.
