Chick-fil-A Pittsburgh Kids Marathon: Motivating Children to Move by Fostering a Community of Encouragement & Resilience

P3R’s mission is to inspire any and all to move has inspired the growth of the Kids of STEEL program to create one of the largest youth race in America, the Chick-fil-A Pittsburgh Kids Marathon. On the 3rd of May, 2025, the 17th race since its inception, is looking to see unprecedented attendance with close to 10 thousand youth participants.

P3R, a nonprofit led by CEO Troy Schooley, developed Kids of STEEL to inspire children and their families to bond through physical activity. Free to join, this program is run by volunteers who train children while instilling in them positive lifestyle habits. After completing 1-mile distances at least 25 times, children culminate this journey by running the 26th and final mile at a family-friendly and fun P3R Event. By setting a clear and tangible goal, kids are more likely to stay consistent, motivated, and resilient.

Those who complete the Kids of STEEL training will be able to run alongside their families and peers at the Chick-fil-A Pittsburgh Kids Marathon. As part of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend, this initiative unites people of all backgrounds and ages to sprint, jog, or march through the city together, and even offers a Sensory Inclusive Heat. Individuals unable to attend can partake in the cause virtually, either by joining the event online, sharing P3R’s free resources with others, or supporting the nonprofit’s efforts financially.

Combined, Kids of STEEL and the Pittsburgh Kids Marathon provide an effective opportunity to increase movement and develop healthy habits. This mission has been central to the program since the very beginning, driving P3R’s team to transform it into a powerful movement that is both easily accessible and flexible. Its proven impact has inspired parents across Pennsylvania and beyond to care for their children’s health better, harnessing the power of movement to combat societal issues.

Because of its flexibility, the program has grown rapidly since 2009, from a pilot project at a single school to more than 300 Kids of STEEL initiatives at schools and community organizations, including one in South Africa. The program even offers low mobility exercises that can be done standing, sitting, or lying down. Whether by implementing training before or after school, within a P.E. Class, through a neighborhood group or faith-based organization, or as an additional support to an already-established program, Kids of STEEL is adaptable to meet the unique needs of every site across the US and worldwide.

Apart from physical benefits, Kids of STEEL’s curriculum includes character building and soft-skill development. Using movement as a vehicle, the program instills in children a sense of integrity, sportsmanship, resilience, and respect. Beyond the race, these traits are in high demand in the workplace, helping shape the next generation of independent and confident leaders.

“Our Kids of STEEL program is all about inspiring children, families, and communities to embrace healthy, active lifestyles from an early age,” says Troy. “Race day is especially meaningful, as kids get to cross the finish line, celebrate their hard work, and feel like a true part of Pittsburgh’s running community. With Kids of STEEL, we’re not just encouraging movement—we’re helping build resilience, confidence, and a lifelong love of being active.”