Our Team

We are a group of runners/walkers that are helping others who struggle with mental health or addiction become more physically and socially active. We run on the energy of our volunteers.

Keith Johnston

Founder, Executive Director, group leader-Medina and Wadsworth

I've always been active but I did not begin serious distance running until age 48. I have completed numerous full marathons as well as shorter races. Throughout my life I have used exercise as a way to manage my own mental health and addictions. In 2016, I was prompted to start this group because a friend of mine lost his son to heroin. I now have a passion to help others learn how to use exercise to improve their lives on all levels.

Todd Jaros, Board President

After stumbling through life using drugs and alcohol as a crutch to deal with life on life’s terms, I was blessed with the gift of sobriety at the age of 31. Along with working a twelve step program, I found that exercise helped me feel better.

My mood was elevated, my thinking became more clear, and I was making better decisions. I started running with groups of people where I felt a connection to the group. Today I enjoy bringing what I’ve found to the people of Running2BWell. Volunteering at Grafton Correctional Institute and helping men reach their exercise goals, while watching them become better versions of themselves has been life changing for me. I am so blessed to have found this program!

Kristen Cline

Mentor Coordinator

Bernie Rochford

Board Member and Akron leader

Bernie Rochford is Executive Vice President of Oriana House, Inc. and has worked for the agency since 1985.  He has been a runner most of his life beginning in high school.  He picked up the pace, so to speak, of his running when he turned 40.  Over the last 20 years he has run 10 marathons, countless half marathons and shorter races.  A hip replacement at the end of 2011 limits his races to a few half marathons a year and several shorter races.  Knowing how positively running has impacted his life, he is excited to bring running/walking to those who may not have had the experience of getting the blood flowing and the endorphins firing off in a good way.  He enjoys engaging people who are struggling with addiction and mental health in a supportive community environment of exercise.