Our Story
The Running Collective started with a simple idea:
"IT'D BE NICE TO RUN WITH SOME FRIENDS."
After moving back to Pittsburg from the Joplin area, Katherine and Renato Pinto were looking for more than just miles on the road — they were looking for community. What began as a small group meeting for casual runs and walks quickly grew into something much bigger.
Founded on the belief that movement should be welcoming and accessible to everyone, The Running Collective has grown from a grassroots running group into a nonprofit organization focused on health, wellness, and community impact in Southeast Kansas.
Today, The Running Collective hosts multiple events each year that bring together runners, walkers, cyclists, families, and supporters from across the region. What started as a handful of people meeting up for weekly runs has evolved into a thriving community built on encouragement, connection, and giving back.
“When we say everyone is welcome, we mean it. All ages, all fitness levels, the Running Collective is a space for YOU.”
Whether you’re training for your first 5K, preparing for a marathon, riding your first cycling event, or simply trying to build healthier habits, this community exists to support and encourage you.
Over the years, teammates have become training partners, training partners have become friends, and friends have become family. The Running Collective is built on accountability, positivity, and the belief that fitness can bring people together in meaningful ways.
“Those around us and how we meet. Many of those in our group not only have become friends but I consider them family.”
The Running Collective exists to promote health, wellness, and community connection by creating inclusive opportunities for people of all fitness levels to move, grow, and give back together.
We believe fitness should be approachable, supportive, and community-driven. Through events, group runs, cycling opportunities, volunteer efforts, and partnerships, we strive to create a positive impact.
Our mission is not only to encourage healthier lifestyles, but also to strengthen the community around us through service, connection, and shared experiences.
Our Mission
“I love that it promotes physical wellness, creates positive habits, and gives people an opportunity to connect through fitness and fun.”
As The Running Collective has grown, so has its impact throughout the community.
Each year, the organization hosts multiple events that bring together hundreds of participants while raising funds and awareness for important causes throughout the area. Through the support of participants, volunteers, sponsors, and community members, The Running Collective has helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for local organizations and charitable initiatives.
One of the organization’s proudest accomplishments was raising more than $28,000 for the Children’s Advocacy Center through a community event that welcomed over 1,000 participants.
Community Impact
“Raising $10,000+ every year for charity.”
“We all have the same goal, do good for our community.”
Beyond fundraising, the organization continues to create opportunities for people to stay active, build confidence, meet others, and develop lifelong healthy habits.
The Running Collective believes that movement can change lives — and that strong communities are built when people show up for one another.
Meet the Board
The Running Collective is led by a dedicated board made up of runners, cyclists, community leaders, volunteers, and advocates for health and wellness. Together, they help guide the organization’s mission while creating opportunities for connection, fitness, and community impact throughout Southeast Kansas.
Each board member brings unique experiences, perspectives, and passion to the organization, but they all share one common goal: creating a welcoming community that encourages people to move, grow, and give back.
“It takes a village to make events at this level happen in our community, we have the best of the best!”
Renato got into running after participating in a 5K in Joplin and instantly getting hooked on the sport. Since then, he has developed a passion for endurance racing, with the marathon distance becoming his favorite challenge.
One of his most memorable race experiences was completing Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, Minnesota — a race well known for its scenic course and incredible atmosphere.
“What I enjoy most is the camaraderie we’ve built with the board.”
Renato Pinto
Katherine got into running after deciding she wanted to improve her health with nothing more than a pair of sneakers and the determination to get started. What began as walking eventually turned into a passion for running and community involvement.
While she appreciates the grit and challenge of the marathon distance, the 10K remains one of her favorite races to compete in. Her favorite race experience to date is the Austin Marathon, a tough course made unforgettable by the incredible energy and support from spectators along the route.
“We all have the same goal — to do good for our community. We bring different perspectives, thoughts, and backgrounds, and it truly takes a village to make events like this happen.”
Katherine Pinto
Bobbi got into running as a way to spend time with a friend, but before long she discovered a true passion for the sport. What started as quality time quickly turned into a love for running and the community that comes with it.
She especially enjoys the challenge and adventure of 25K trail races, with Dogwood Canyon standing out as one of her favorite race experiences.
“I enjoy being around people who love the same things I do.”
Bobbi Copenhaver
Jessica began running more consistently in 2021 after finding herself overweight and in need of an outlet. She had run intermittently throughout adulthood, but this became a turning point in her relationship with running and physical activity.
She enjoys the 10K distance. One of her favorite race experiences was completing a 10K in Kansas City.
“I appreciate that everyone shares a common goal of making a positive impact in our community — with a strong focus on health, wellness, and creating opportunities for connection and support.”
Jessica Jo Crager
Tom maintains an active lifestyle and was drawn into cycling through that ongoing commitment to staying active.
His preferred discipline is gravel cycling, and one of his favorite events is Coal Miners.
“I enjoy being part of creating a successful event.”
Tom Swartz
Erin grew up riding bikes on dirt roads where there was little to no pavement, and later found running in adulthood after initially disliking distance running in high school. After getting married, she began focusing more on fitness and running regularly. Her involvement with The Running Collective started by supporting friends at events, which quickly grew into something more meaningful as she built friendships and a sense of community through the group.
She especially values the 10K distance, which she considers the perfect race distance.
One of her most memorable experiences was completing the Marine Corps Marathon series. Each race offered a unique atmosphere, with standout moments including support from U.S. Marines along the course, the emotional “Blue Mile,” and the unforgettable experience of being saluted at the finish. The series also led to lasting friendships that she continues to value.
“I enjoy getting to see others challenge themselves and get excited about new PRs.”
Erin Rivero
Kurt got into running at 43 years old when he simply walked out of his house one day and decided to see how far he could run in an effort to become healthier. What started as a personal challenge turned into a passion for endurance and trail running.
He especially enjoys the challenge of 25K-style trail races, with the Dogwood Canyon Trail Run being one of his favorite race experiences.
“I enjoy talking with others about their races and running experiences and seeing everyone out at events.”
Kurt Grotheer
Kaylee began running at a young age and competed through junior high and high school. In college, she continued her involvement in the sport by joining Team Beef Kansas, sponsored by the Kansas Livestock Association.
Her favorite race distance is the half marathon. One of her favorite race experiences is the Route 66 Marathon in Tulsa, because of the energy and support from spectators along the course.
“I have enjoyed meeting people who share similar health goals and a love of staying active, and I like being able to serve the community alongside them.”
Kaylee Long
Whitney is a lifelong runner and former college track athlete. She began cycling a few years ago through triathlon training, and her interest in gravel riding grew as she prepared for participation in the Coal Miners event.
She enjoys road racing, with the 15K being one of her favorite distances. One of her favorite race experiences includes running the Route 66 Half Marathon multiple times, as well as this year’s Turkey Trot and Stars and Stripes 5K, where she ran alongside her 9-year-old son.
“I love being at events and hearing the stories of accomplishment people experience — from first-time 5K walkers to 100K gravel finishers to families celebrating milestones together. I love getting to help create opportunities where people can accomplish things they never thought they could and make lasting memories with loved ones.”
Whitney Snyder
Lance grew up in a family where running was a shared activity among siblings, which helped introduce him to the sport early on.
He enjoys the 10K distance, and one of his favorite race experiences was the Marine Corps Historic Half.
“I enjoy helping the events grow.”
Lance Stoltzfus
Jonrey started running and cycling as a way to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
He prefers ultra-distance gravel events, including rides of 100 miles or more. Some of his favorite events include Unbound 200 and Gravel Worlds 150.
“It gives me an opportunity to share ideas and volunteer on special events in my community.”
Jonrey Pino
At its core, The Running Collective still believes the same thing it did from the beginning:
Sometimes all it takes is running with some friends.
Whether you’re a lifelong athlete or taking your very first step, there’s a place for you here. Join us at a group run, community event, or volunteer opportunity — and become part of something bigger than the miles.