Melissa Stapanowich has experience working on behalf of teenageers and young adults for over 8 years.  After viewing the documentary 26.2 TO LIFE, she saw a need in our community. From this, the Life Strides Foundation was born.  A local runner and volunteer for athletes with adaptive needs, she is familiar with the positive impact that physical activity can have on a person's physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being.

Markelle Taylor was a member of the 1000 Mile Club at the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center and was featured in the award winning documentary 26.2 TO LIFE, sharing his story of running a marathon while serving a life sentence in prison. Since being paroled in 2019, Markelle has been giving back to his community by sharing his story and offering support to others in similar situations.  He is especially impactful in his speaking engagements with youth facilities and shares his driving message that we are not the worst thing we've ever done.

Justin Kraft has been working with youth and young adults for the last 25 years, through a variety of mentorship programs, as a foster parent, and currently as a mental health therapist (LPC) for youth in the foster care and justice system. He is engaged and passionate by connecting with others through community partnerships and pro-social activities. He has personally experienced how the activity of running can impact a person's entire well-being and continues his personal running journey through trail running and is always eager with helping others in the sport!