Feature Friday: Making A Difference, One Mile At A Time

Every Friday we chat with one of our blog content network contributors to find out what most inspires them to be fit and find adventure every day.

This week we're chatting with Kelly Mitchell  from Miles to Go.

An all-around avid athlete, in high school Kelly was a rower and now she is a marathon runner with her sights set on one day running and ultra-race. She is also passionate about volunteering and runs many of her races in support of various charities.

Read on to learn more about how she uses running to make a difference in the lives of others.

The Active Times: How did you first become involved in writing about running, volunteering and fundraising?
Kelly Mitchell: I was always the marathon friend. I persuade a lot of friends to run races with me! I volunteer fairly often, and take a lot of friends with me. I open their eyes up to different situations that need help. So, I started to blog because I figured more runners would want to understand and know where/how to volunteer or fundraise.

Describe in 140 characters or less how you judge the success of your blog.
I judge my blog's success on people reaching out saying I am making a difference.

What is the greatest joy you get from running and fundraising?
My greatest joy is seeing people react to my posts and make something of it. If I write about a nonprofit or charity that needs help, and seeing that succeed—that's amazing.

What's one thing many people don't know about running, volunteering and fundraising?
One thing people don't know about combining running, volunteering and fundraising together is how easy it can be to make a difference. You can run with a shirt advertising a charitable organization, and you're making a difference. 

What advice would you give to someone trying running for the first time?
Keep yourself interested. Don't run because you just want to stay in shape. Run because it's fun and challenging for you.Volunteer with people you enjoy and have your donations go toward something meaningful. Make meaning out of everything.

What is the one piece of kit or equipment you'd never be without?
My iPad and computer.  I honestly think I'd need these more than my phone!

What is the one book everyone should read about running?
"What I Talk About When I Talk About Running" by Haruki Murakami

Are you passionate about any activities besides running?
Of course!  I scrapbook, put together photo albums, travel often and many other things. 

What is your favorite quote, and what do you so like about it?
"To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all."

I love it because it's true.  Most people feel they can't make a difference or start something new. But, you can—live life to the fullest.

What is at the top of your bucket list when it comes to running?
Running an ultra. Hopefully soon!

Learn more about Kelly on her blog, Miles to Go.