Our Mission
Running Start is a student-led nonprofit dedicated to funding sports programs for underfunded and Title I schools, ensuring every student has access to athletics.
Our Vision
We envision a future where all students—regardless of financial background—have equal opportunities to participate in sports and benefit from the physical, mental, and academic advantages they provide.
The Problem
There are 34 Title 1 schools in Washoe County alone. These schools may lack the funding to sustain strong athletic programs. As a result:
• Students lose access to sports opportunities
• Equipment and resources are limited
• Participation becomes inequitable
Our Solution
Running Start raises funds through community-driven initiatives and directly supports schools by funding:
• Athletic equipment
• Team and program costs
• School-identified athletic needs
We work closely with school administrators to ensure funds are used effectively and where they are needed most.
Meet the Founder
Fred Lee
Hi! My name is Fred Lee and I am a junior going to Damonte Ranch High School. I have always had a passion for physical activity ever since I was young. I have been in a weightlifting club since the 3rd grade. I used to play soccer for about 4 years. And I have also been playing basketball for 4 years. Besides athletics, I do speech and debate, traveling, baking, and hanging out with friends and family.
To find out more about me, check out a couple of my blog posts!
Champions aren’t made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them—a desire, a dream, a vision.
- Muhammad Ali
I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career... I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.
- Michael Jordan
Somewhere behind the athlete you’ve become... is a little girl who fell in love with the game and never looked back... play for her.