Question 1

What is SRLA?

Accepted Answer

Students Run LA is a non-profit that provides a free school-based mentoring and physical fitness program for underserved middle and high school students in the Greater Los Angeles area. We train students to run the Los Angeles Marathon.

Question 2

Where does SRLA operate?

Accepted Answer

Students Run LA operates across nearly 200 middle and high school campuses across the greater Los Angeles region.

Question 3

I am a student, how do I join?

Accepted Answer

We’re excited that you want to be part of SRLA! With more than 200 school sites across the greater Los Angeles area, there are many opportunities to join.

Contact us to find a program near you.

Question 4

I want to sign my school up, how do I do that?

Accepted Answer

The SRLA New Group Application process is very competitive. Each year, we receive 30 to 40 applications and can usually take only a handful of new schools if any at all. The application requires an official at the school to be the leader of the program (i.e., a teacher or administrator, not a parent) and also requires a letter of support from the principal. We have found if the SRLA program does not get support from the school’s administration, it’s not likely to succeed.

If you are interested and would like to get involved or get a feel for the program, we recommend you or students at your school register for the 5K events at each of our SRLA-hosted races next season.

If you are interested and would like to get involved or get a feel for the program, we recommend you or students at your school register for the 5K events at each of our SRLA-hosted races next season.

Question 5

What schools are eligible to sign up?

Accepted Answer

Eligibility for new SRLA school sites is available to all public schools serving middle and high school students in the Greater Los Angeles area.

Question 6

What does it cost a student to be part of SRLA?

Accepted Answer

NOTHING. The costs to support a student in the program are covered by the fundraising efforts of SRLA. You can help us support students on their marathon journey here.

Question 7

How can I donate to SRLA?

Accepted Answer

There are many ways to support us, find out how  here.

Question 8

Do you have any opportunities to volunteer?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We run on volunteer support. Find out more here.

Question 9

Where do I join the Alumni network?

Accepted Answer

You can learn more about the Alumni network here where you can sign up to hear about volunteer opportunities, running groups, workshops and more!

Question 10

I have a question about my scholarship, who do I contact?

Accepted Answer

For all questions related to the SRLA scholarship please email scholarships@srla.org with your name, graduating class, and question.

Question 11

I am in another sport at school, can I still join SRLA?

Accepted Answer

That is up to you! Marathon training takes time and energy, and we want all of our students to run safely. Many students are able to do multiple sports (cross-country is a favorite) but some prefer to focus on one. Talk to your coach, parent, and family doctor about what is best for you.

Question 12

I want to be on the social media accounts for SRLA, how do I do that?

Accepted Answer

We love to highlight our incredible runners! Please post through your school’s SRLA social media account, tag SRLA  @studentsrunla (not a collab post), and keep in mind the social media guidelines about profanity, gestures, and appropriate behavior shared at the beginning of the season.

Question 13

Are you still doing Motivational Valentines?

Accepted Answer

Always! We love to have notes and cards to inspire our runners in their final weeks of training before the Marathon. We prefer cards do not include the date or year, but we are open to all motivation you can send along.

Please send Valentines to:

PO BOX 3928
Valley Village, CA 91617

Question 14

Do students really run a marathon?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Our students begin in September with a 5K (3.1 miles) and train with their coaches and fellow student runners every week to get in shape and build up the strength and endurance they need as long-distance runners.

This training includes after school runs, weekend long-runs, as well as building the confidence to take on a mentally difficult task.

We are pleased to work with UCLA OIC to study the safety and benefits of marathon training for the students we work with.

Question 15

I have run a marathon and want to get involved, what’s the best way?

Accepted Answer

You are in the right place. Less than one percent of the global population will run a marathon in their lifetime. There are many ways to get involved from being a Friend at a specific school site to help with training, to our TEAM SRLA marathon fundraising program.

Find the opportunity that works best for you here.

Question 16

I never ever want to run a marathon but I want to get involved, what’s the best way?

Accepted Answer

We don’t blame you. You can join the 5K runs at our SRLA-hosted races throughout the season (you still get a medal!) or you can volunteer with us. We always need helping hands at races for registration and check in, crowd control, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions