The Next Mile

Fueling the future of MS Run the US

The Next Mile Fund is a bold, three-year capital campaign designed to propel MS Run the US into its next chapter of growth and impact. With your support, we’re building the foundation to expand programs, reach more people affected by multiple sclerosis, and strengthen our mission from coast to coast.

Vision

The Next Mile Fund fuels the future of MS Run the US by investing in lasting sustainability, innovation, and inclusive wellness.

With a bold commitment to holistic wellbeing, we’re expanding our impact through new programs that move with and for the MS community—supporting strength of body, mind, and connection. Every mile forward is more than distance—it’s transformation.

The next mile isn’t just about finishing strong—it’s about starting something bold. With your support, we will reach more people, amplify our mission, and build a future of strength, support, and possibility for the MS community. Join us.

Together, we are building the path for the miles ahead.

Letter from our President

Since founding MS Run the US, it has been my dream to one day hire an Executive Director—someone who can help carry our mission forward with strength, vision, and sustainability. I am thrilled to share that, with the generous support of key donors like you, that dream is finally becoming a reality. We now have the opportunity to hire an exceptional leader and expand our impact through innovative programming for the MS community.

This moment marks a pivotal point in our journey. Nearly 90% of nonprofits never make it beyond the founder-led stage—but we are defying the odds. With your support, we are launching our first capital campaign to fund long-term organizational growth, new community-driven initiatives, and the infrastructure needed to sustain our work for years to come. It’s more than a campaign—it’s a commitment to the future of this mission and the impact our work has on the MS community, and I couldn’t be more excited to build it with you.

I would love to personally invite you to review our campaign materials and consider joining us in funding this next chapter. Your belief in our work has brought us this far—and together, we can ensure this mission thrives for generations to come.

With deep gratitude,

Ashley Schneider, President

Why the Next Mile Fund

This Next Mile Fund enables innovation, strengthens our current programs and enhances sustainability for our mission so we can make a tangible impact in the lives of those we serve.

Commitment to Wellbeing

Four new programs which are a direct reflection of our commitment to holistically support those experiencing MS and their caregivers.

Fueling Growth

Supporting essential staffing and operational needs that allow us to develop and execute our expanded programs.

Investing in People

Hiring key team members to drive new initiatives and deepen our community impact.

Strengthening Our Foundation

Ensuring the longevity and sustainability of our mission for years to come.

Innovative Programs

Committed to enriching the wellbeing and sense of belonging of those living with MS.

MS Run Club

MS Run Clubs unite runners and walkers in cities nationwide to move for a cause—building community, awareness, and support for people living with MS.

The heartbeat of our impact!
Local "chapters" of MS Run the US
Outreach and engagement of those living with MS
Will create social and fitness opportunities for members
Clubs will offer volunteer leadership roles
Organize local "national" events in their community:
First Clubs coming in 2026: Wisconsin, Colorado, Nebraska

MS Thrive Network

The MS Thrive Network connects people living with MS to resources, peers, and purpose—because no one should navigate MS alone.

Members with MS as well as supporters of our cause will be able to join the MS Thrive Network to network with others, gain helpful insight to help them thrive and participate in challenges.
With our partners, MS Run the US will develop holistic wellbeing challenges around fitness, nutrition, mindfulness. The MS Thrive Network will be a platform for our members to engage in these challenges and encourage others.
The MS Thrive Network will also be a place that local MS Run Clubs can plan events and communicate to their members.

Team Endurance

Team Endurance transforms athletic grit into life-changing impact—raising funds that provide inclusive wellness programs and support for people living with MS.

Create a local racing community
Support MS athletes living with diverse abilities to participate in endurance events
We will purchase and maintain specialized racing equipment to support these athletes free of charge
Team environment for people of all levels
Partner with myTEAM TRIUMPH
Regular group training runs in each of our MS Run Club locations
Increased visibility for our cause
Seven events in 2026

MS Fit

MS Fit helps people living with MS reclaim strength, confidence, and community through accessible, adaptive fitness.

Structured 8-12 wholistic health and wellness program.
Phase 1: Digital engagement.
- Support community, group fitness challenges
Phase 2: Implemented and delivered by partner fitness centers such as the YMCA.
Curated by MS Run The US experts:
- Researchers
- Nutritionists
- Exercise Physiologists
- Personal Trainers
- Group Fitness Instructors

The Next Mile Development Strategy

Our four-year development plan takes MS Run the US from strategic investment to full program implementation. Together, we’re building the foundation for long-term impact—expanding reach, deepening community connection, and empowering people living with MS to thrive.

Year 1: People Power

The first mile begins with people—the heart of our mission and the key to sustainable growth.

Hire a full-time Executive Director to guide strategic expansion and oversee organizational development.
Transition Founder and President Ashley Schneider into the role of Chief Ambassador to champion our mission nationwide.
Realign staff toward program development and fundraising, ensuring focus and accountability across all mission areas.
Grow the Board of Directors from 4 to 13 members, expanding leadership capacity and community representation.
Strengthen fund development programs to ensure financial sustainability for future growth.
Build infrastructure for new programs through technology, training, and systems development.
Launch Team Endurance with seven endurance events that raise awareness and funds through movement.
Soft launch the MS Thrive Network, connecting people living with MS to resources and community.
Seed three MS Run Club Chapters in Wisconsin, Colorado, and Nebraska to unite runners and build local engagement.
Focus on developing powerful relationships in our community to lay the foundation for long-term organizational growth and sustainability.

Year 2: Program Growth

With strong systems in place, we’ll accelerate growth and expand participation across the nation.

Grow Team Endurance from seven to fifteen national and regional endurance events.
Seed two additional MS Run Club Chapters to expand our coast-to-coast reach.
Publicly launch the MS Thrive Network, empowering people with MS through connection, mentorship, and education.
Equip our Delafield headquarters with essential furnishings to support a growing team and operations.

Year 3: Development and Expansion

In year three, we’ll deepen our impact and prepare for the next phase of innovation.

Continue expansion of Team Endurance and Run Clubs, refining programming and engagement.
Develop the MS Fit Program, laying the groundwork for a pilot launch through partnerships, curriculum, and adaptive training design.
Evaluate systems and staff capacity to ensure continued alignment between mission growth and organizational stability.

Year 4: Full Implementation

The final phase of The Next Mile brings full program activation and nationwide visibility.

Pilot the MS Fit Program, providing inclusive and adaptive fitness opportunities for people living with MS.
Sustain growth across all existing programs—Team Endurance, MS Run Clubs, and MS Thrive Network—ensuring lasting impact.
Celebrate the collective progress of every runner, donor, and partner who helped move us toward a stronger, more inclusive future.