Our mission is to provide an anonymous and safe community of support for all those adversely affected by addiction – those in recovery, their families and friends, caregivers, the clinical community, healthcare and wellness professionals ​and the community at large.
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For the Bulldogs, recovery from substance use disorder is not just about quitting drugs or alcohol. It’s also about building meaningful, connected, sober lives. Physical activity, holistic wellbeing, peer support, and a strong sense of community are crucial elements of this process. Our programs – which range from weekly group structured runs (and walks), outreach to area hospitals and recovery centers, support for people in active addiction in shelters and soup kitchens, programs for at-risk young people, meditation and wellness sessions and more — offer hope, structure, and a sense of belonging to individuals who are often isolated and stigmatized.

Donations and sponsorships from individuals, partners and corporations, including those given to our annual Polar Plunge in February, Boston Marathon Charity Team in April, and Run for Recovery 5K and Tribute at Franklin Park in May are used to support the various programs of the Boston Bulldogs Running Club including:

1. Weekly Runs: We believe that running and community are essential tools in long-term recovery. Therefore, we host six weekly runs in five different locations including Chestnut Hill, Needham, Plymouth, Quincy and Worcester.
2. New Member Support: 60% of new members come to us without the support of friends or family. Most have limited financial resources so your contribution provides them with club membership running,apparel, running shoes, jackets, water bottles, race registration fees, etc. free of charge. We also host several community nights throughout the year offering a way for members to connect and socialize. Your contributions cover the cost of food and drinks while supporting local businesses.
3. Junior Bulldogs Programs: Vulnerable, at-risk young people are introduced to running, wellness and community as lifelong tools to address anxiety and depression through these 4 to 8 week programs. Our curriculum was designed by World Marathon Champion Becca Pizzi who also leads her own foundation and youth program.
4. Full Circle Programs: A 6-week program held throughout the calendar year introducing members to the Club and its Three Principles (Self-leadership, Transparency towards self and others, and Giving Back). Participants are paired with a Bulldog Leadership Team member and a certified running coach to achieve specific running and wellness goals. Strength training sessions and community meetings are included as well.
5. Marathon Team: Each year members are trained to run the Boston Marathon to raise awareness and funds for the Club. Last year, 15 individuals ran the Boston Marathon as part of our official BAA Boston Marathon Charity Team. 18 others also ran the Boston Marathon either officially or for another worthy cause. Funds are used to support them with mentors and trainers, gear, gels, running shoes, water stops, team lunches and apparel for drawings, competition prizes, etc.
6. Leadership Team: Members who have completed Full Circle One and Full Circle Two are invited to apply for the Leadership Team. This gives them the opportunity to give back by organizing our weekly runs and becoming wellness sponsors to Club members. Leaders also gather for training several times a year and each summer participate in a full day of training at the Cathleen Stone Island Outward Bound School.
7. Giving Back Programs: The Bulldogs participate in outreach efforts at area sober living homes, recovery centers, hospitals, shelters, jails, community gatherings, vigils and road races. Last year the Boston Bulldogs participated in over 110 such opportunities.

As the only running club of its kind in Massachusetts, we have 640 members, a 20% increase in the last two years.