In 2004, Izzy Alvarado found running as a path to recovery. He started with a 5K, then a 10K, followed by a half marathon—eventually running his first full marathon. Over time, marathons became his passion, and he’s now completed an incredible 17 of them.
But Izzy’s story isn’t just about running—it’s about resilience. Like so many in recovery, relapse was part of his journey. Each time, it got worse—because addiction is a progressive illness. Yet through it all, two things remained constant: recovery and running.
After his last relapse, Izzy found his way back. Two years into sobriety, while sharing at an AA meeting, a treatment center heard him speak about his passion. They asked if he’d be willing to take their clients on runs twice a week. Without hesitation, Izzy said yes.
The first time he led a run, 10 patients showed up. But he quickly realized a challenge—many didn’t have proper running shoes. Some had none at all. So, he turned to social media, asking for donations. The response was overwhelming. Before he knew it, his living room was overflowing with shoes.
As the donations grew, Izzy introduced a simple but powerful incentive: after participating in 12 runs, patients earned a brand-new pair of running shoes. And just like that, Go The Distance (GTD) was born—eventually becoming an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
What started as a volunteer effort has grown into a full-time mission. In 2024 alone, GTD expanded in ways Izzy never imagined:
- 15 staff members
- 7 board members
- 60+ volunteers
- Partnerships with 7 treatment centers
- 28 runs per week
- A physical HQ in the heart of Old Town—a space for work, community meetings, award creation, celebrations, and fundraisers
One of the biggest milestones? A partnership with On, whose North American headquarters in Portland has embraced GTD through their Right to Run Program. The On store on NW 23rd hosts GTD runners monthly, and the company provides essential gear—shoes, socks, bras, and more—to ensure every participant has what they need to keep moving forward.
With every step, GTD is proving that running is more than just a sport—it’s a vehicle for transformation. And thanks to Izzy’s unwavering commitment, hundreds are finding their own path to recovery, one run at a time.
Want to support GTD? Get involved, donate, or spread the word. Every mile matters.
