What We Do​

Holistic Childhood Development

We support communities in nurturing the wellbeing and holistic development of youth

We envision communities that nurture, care for, and value youth throughout “middle childhood” – emerging as future leaders, engaged in activities that nurture their development, understanding of their agency, value and worth, and living into their fullest potential. We move towards this vision:

Through Care & Belonging

Youth experience safe mentoring relationships, care, belonging, and affirmation of their dignity, potential, and worth

Through Knowledge & Instruction

Youth gain knowledge and skills to support their thriving.

Through Physical Activity

Youth experience healing and holistic wellness through physical activity and growth.

Through Care & Belonging

Youth experience safe mentoring relationships, care, belonging, and affirmation of their dignity, potential, and worth

Through Knowledge & Instruction
Youth gain knowledge and skills to support their thriving.
Through Physical Activity
Youth experience healing and holistic wellness through physical activity and growth.

The Healing Power of Movement and Support

Running has the power to heal, strengthen, and transform lives. Our science backed approach uses movement to encourage healthy brain development, help young minds process difficult emotions, cultivate confidence and inner leadership, build resilience for life’s challenges, and weave supportive community connections.

We are rooted in three key principles* that drive positive outcomes for children:

Strengthening Core Life Skills

Through running, children develop self-regulation, goal-setting, and leadership skills that serve them beyond the run.

Building Responsive Relationships

Supportive mentors and peer connections help children feel seen, valued, and empowered.

Reducing Sources of Stress

Physical activity and positive social environments help children process emotions, build resilience, and navigate life’s challenges.

Harvard University Center on the Developing Child. (2023). Science X Design: Three Principles to Improve Outcomes for Children [Video]. Retrieved from https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/videos/science-x-design-three-principles-to-improve-outcomes-for-children/

Our Impact

In addition to supporting communities to nurture the wellbeing and holistic development of their young future leaders to create lasting generational change, we’re making a measurable impact in the communities we serve:

50,500+ children

are finding their potential across 16 African countries

29% reduction

in children’s trauma symptoms through movement based healing

25% increase

in key life skills through mentorship and community support

2,845+ dedicated coaches

trained in their communities to guide youth toward brighter futures

The People Behind Our Mission

Meet the dedicated team nurturing our vision and guiding our growth across communities.

Gladys Mwangi

Program Specialist
Nairobi, Kenya

John Issaya

Program Specialist
In partnership with Red Knot Development
Arusha, Tanzania

Rabecca Msangaambe

Program Specialist
in partnership with World Renew Kenya
Lilongwe, Malawi

Ari deJonge

Executive Director
Grand Rapids, Michigan

Sara Merrilees

Operations Manager
Edinburgh, Scotland

Maggie Mesler

Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Grand Rapids, Michigan

Dana Doll

Board Member
Grand Rapids, Michigan

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Kendra Ippel

Board Member
Grand Rapids, Michigan

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Jennifer Mesler

Board Member
Grand Rapids, Michigan

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Michael Mulder

Board Member
Grand Rapids, Michigan

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Andrew Yathon

Board Member
Grand Rapids, Michigan

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Dana Doll

Board Member

As Director of the Micah 6:8 Foundation, Dana leads efforts that support visionary leaders and meaningful change throughout East Africa. Previously, she co-founded Treetops Collective, a nonprofit organization in West Michigan dedicated to helping New American women build leadership, connection, and a sense of belonging within their communities. Her dedication to strengthening communities and driving positive change will bring lasting value and impact to We Run We Rise in the years ahead.

Kendra Ippel

Board Member

With experience in nonprofit governance and a professional background in midwifery and sexual health programming, Kendra brings thoughtful leadership and a unique perspective to We Run We Rise. She is inspired by the organization’s intentional approach and its commitment to creating meaningful, measurable impact. Her passion for community-centered work and advancing health and well-being will be valuable in strengthening our mission and vision for years to come.

Jennifer Mesler

Board Member

Jennifer brings extensive board experience and has been part of We Run We Rise since its earliest stages. Her leadership background, combined with visits to running clubs in Rwanda and Tanzania, has given her firsthand insight into the joy, connection, and impact these clubs create for youth and communities. She offers thoughtful perspective shaped by both her professional experience and deep understanding of the mission, making her a steady and valued contributor as We Run We Rise continues to grow and expand its impact.

Michael Mulder

Board Member

Michael’s belief in the power of running to inspire, connect, and create change led to the original idea for youth running clubs in 2014. Through his leadership and the support of the Micah 6:8 Foundation, that vision became reality through the launch of the first youth running clubs in East Africa. What started as a simple idea has since grown into We Run We Rise, and we’re thankful for Michael’s continued support and guidance as we carry that vision forward and expand our impact.

Andrew Yathon

Board Member

Andy was first introduced to We Run We Rise in Tanzania during the 2025 5K Fun Run, an event that also marked the official launch of our organization as a nonprofit. There, he ran alongside youth participants and coaches and experienced the energy and connection at the heart of our running clubs. With a passion for endurance racing, Andy brings both lived experience and a deep passion for the sport. Since that first introduction, he has completed a 100K race in support of WRWR fundraising and joined the board to contribute his professional expertise and commitment to running.