In Aurora, Illinois, a remarkable story of resilience and redemption is unfolding as residents of Wayside Cross, a Christian recovery center and shelter, prepare to participate in the upcoming Fox Valley half-marathon. Among them is Marcos Hernandez, who describes a life spent running—primarily to escape his past and what he perceives as spiritual distance. Hernandez, now four years sober, is channeling his energy into a new pursuit: completing a 13.1-mile race alongside fellow shelter residents, as part of a broader rehabilitation effort.
This initiative is part of the nationwide “Up and Running Again” program, which has been empowering homeless shelter residents to train for half-marathons since 2010. The program has supported over 1,300 participants across ten locations, from the Pacific Northwest to Illinois, fostering physical and emotional healing through structured running routines and camaraderie.
The program emphasizes the transformative power of teamwork and perseverance. Led by volunteers like Rev. Bruce McEvoy, a seasoned marathoner and pastor, participants train for 12 weeks, running three times weekly—shorter runs midweek and longer distances on Saturdays. Volunteers accompany runners, offering guidance and encouragement, fostering bonds that extend beyond physical activity.
“Running shoulder to shoulder isn’t just about fitness; it’s about sharing life,” McEvoy explains. His church, Chapel Street Church, has longstanding ties to Wayside Cross, which has served individuals battling addiction and homelessness since its founding in 1927, inspired by evangelist Billy Sunday.
Since June, roughly a dozen runners have embarked on this journey, with eight still committed by August. During a recent gathering, they shared their progress, celebrating milestones such as overcoming initial exhaustion and dropping weight. Participants like Will Dominguez and Nick Adams spoke about newfound strength and appreciation for nature during their runs along the Fox River Trail.
James Milschewski, a 32-year-old participant, expressed mixed feelings about the training—acknowledging the difficulty of early mornings but recognizing the value of challenge and discipline. Longtime resident Tom McCall, who previously qualified for the Boston Marathon, attributes his progress to persistence. His own story of overcoming prison life and regaining fitness underscores the program’s core message: resilience and hard work are essential for transformation.
For many, the race represents a symbolic victory over past struggles. The night before the race, participants will gather with loved ones to celebrate their journey, a moment of affirmation and healing. Program founder Steve Tierney notes the profound impact of this experience, emphasizing its capacity to foster hope and community.
Tierney, who started running in 2008, credits his involvement with the program for broadening his understanding of empathy and shared human vulnerability. His initiative demonstrates that with support and determination, individuals facing significant obstacles can achieve extraordinary milestones.
As race day approaches, the residents of Wayside Cross remain focused on their goal: crossing the finish line, one step at a time. For Hernandez and his peers, this race is more than a physical challenge; it is a symbol of renewal and a testament to the power of perseverance.
Reading about the Wayside Cross residents training for the half-marathon really highlights the incredible power of physical activity in mental and emotional healing. I’ve seen firsthand how setting a challenging goal, like completing a race, can serve as a catalyst for personal transformation, especially for those overcoming difficult pasts. It’s inspiring to see the strong community support—volunteers and fellow runners sharing the journey—and how that camaraderie can build resilience beyond just the running. I wonder how sustainable these habits are after the race, though. Do programs like this incorporate ongoing support to help participants maintain these healthy routines and continue building on their progress? From my experience volunteering with different recovery initiatives, creating a long-term support system is crucial for lasting change. I’d love to hear if others have insights or success stories related to maintaining motivation and progress after such a milestone event.