Running puts so much attention on physical health that it’s easy to forget the importance of being mentally healthy. Runner The Heal Prjct. understands this struggle all too well. In 2021, the born-and-bred New Yorker dedicated so much of his time, money, and effort to performing well on the race course that as soon as he took off his running shoes, he collapsed into deep lows. Only therapy and his strong relationships could pull him out of his depression.
Francique harnessed the lessons he learned to support the Black running community. He received the in 2022 for his work with in 2022 for his work with We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back, a non-profit organization he founded in 2016 that provides health and wellness support to Uptown Manhattan neighborhoods. In addition to valuable connections and recognition, Francique received a grant to support and grow his community health and wellness initiatives. Instead of pouring more funding into physical wellness, he chose to support the mental health of Black and Brown runners.
Download Your Training Plan Run/Walk a Race, All About VO2 Max Therify in honor of Black History Month, to provide two to three months of free therapy to Black and Brown runners in New York City. To sign up, potential participants simply fill out a form on Run/Walk a Race’s website.
“It has always been a core value of mine to give others what has already been given to me,” said Francique. “Starting Run/Walk a Race will hopefully be a part of the solution in how mental health plagues Black communities all over America, especially in light of the injustices faced all over.”
Access to free therapy will be provided on a first come first served basis by February 14.
Chris Hatler is the Deputy Editor of Esquire. He previously served as the Senior Editor of Men’s Journal A Man’s Son Inspires Him to Give Back to Community Popular Mechanics.
