Annie’s Locker was started in 2008. Inspired by a fellow runner who died in 2007, the idea was born to do something to inspire people toward a healthier lifestyle. We hope to help people find their “wings.”

Annie’s Locker is a non-profit organization that supports people in need of proper fitness gear and provides race scholarships in Rockford, Illinois that operates under the charter of Rockford Road Runners, a RRCA member club, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Annie’s Locker does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, family status or marital status.

Our Mission

Inspiring and equipping people to lead healthier lives.

Our Vision

Improved physical fitness can have a positive impact on all areas of people’s lives.

Our Heart

Running For Two (R42) - In 2007, a fellow runner and friend who was battling cancer asked for one thing: “Please run for me until I can run again.” That request from our namesake, Annie, was the seed that later grew into Annie’s Locker. Running for Two is about keeping a metaphorical candle burning for someone in need while running or exercising. Running For Two for someone who is struggling can be a very powerful form of prayer and support. We have “run” for many and have seen amazing things happen while Running For Two. Annie’s Locker and Running For Two is not just about running–we are planting seeds in our world, building community, and assisting those who are struggling. Our goal is to inspire our recipients as well as our donors and volunteers.

History

In keeping with Annie’s Locker’s mission of inspiring and equipping people to lead healthy lives, Annie’s Locker began by distributing fitness gear and race sponsorships to women in need. Annie’s Locker quickly realized the need in to offer assistance to all people in need. During our third year, Annie’s Lockers reached out to the Rockford Rescue Mission in hopes of helping the women and men in their Recovery Programs. Annie’s Locker supplemented their current fitness programming by offering clothing and shoes so more of their participants could be involved. Then we became involved by conducting a weekly visit for Pilates, yoga, and strength workouts. In addition, we started walking groups along the bike path and helped them with setting goals. They earned race sponsorships by writing essays about what motivates them to become physically fit. We aided them in running their first races and board members even helped run them into the finish line. Next, we decided to try to build an on-site fitness center for the staff and residents of the mission. In 2011, we were able to install a full service gym named the ANNIE’S LOCKER FITNESS CENTER at the Rockford Rescue Mission.

Since our inception we have provided fitness gear and race entries to thousands of people in the local community. We have fitted over 1,500 Rockford Public School children with sneakers so they can participate in gym class. Annie’s Locker hopes to continue providing not only gym shoes and new socks to local children in need, but also the inspiration and education to make an even bigger impact with each individual.