#RUN EVERY
WHERE

My name is Steven Blais, I'm the founder and co-leader of November Project Providence, Janji Corps old-timer, leader of a run crew in Providence, and recently engaged human person committed to making the world a little better every day.

JANJI: Why are you choosing to run everywhere for the day?

STEVEN: Life is happening all around us, and getting to experience the sights, sounds, and feelings of it are something we often take for granted, or limit ourselves to doing for only a few miles at a time. And that doesn't even jump into the carbon footprint of it. Not driving anywhere for a day reduces my reliance on fossil fuels, and maybe can inspire others to do the same. Like Margaret Mead said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world."

J: What are you looking to get out of the experience?

S: I think knowing that in a town where nothing is really nearby, I have the chance to experience a bit more of my home on foot, when really, I usually run the same places.  I'm hoping that this will let me see things in 3D, the people, the places, the litter, the beauty, and see how I can make my community better.  And it'll force me to slow down.  If I go get a coffee, I'm drinking that coffee before I run back.  So I'll ENJOY it, rather than having it nearby while working and drinking it as it gets cold.

J: What will be the most challenging?

S: Definitely it will be knowing that there isn't much "nearby". Even if I wanted to get a cup of coffee, I've got at least a mile there, and at least a mile back.

J: Anything else that you think could be interesting?

S: Our cities and towns are all so vastly different, with interesting pieces of art, homes, landscapes and architecture.  Getting to see them without the windows of a car, bus, train...it can be life changing. I'm so excited to do it.

My name is Jordan, from Watertown, MA and I am an avid middle distance runner for Battle Road Track Club, as well as a creative writer.

JANJI: Why are you choosing to run everywhere for the day?

JORDAN: I am choosing to run everywhere for the day, first and foremost, because I love running! It's my favorite form of transportation. Generally, I set out to run each day as part of a specific routine, for the myriad of benefits it provides: goal achievement, physical and mental health booster, time for solitude and creativity. Choosing to run everywhere as part of something larger than a routine will be a challenge, and a worthy one. It provides the opportunity to get outside more, utilize running for its core purpose -- movement -- and of course, it allows me to have a lower carbon footprint than driving or taking the bus.

J: What are you looking to get out of the experience?

S: I hope to make a practice of running different places more often, and this could be the kickstart I need.

J: What will be the most challenging?

S: The most challenging for me I think will be planning ahead and figuring out ways to be resourceful. Weather could have an impact as well (March can be so fickle!).