Wild Ideas Worth Living · Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Alison Mariella Désir started a community run club in Harlem in November 2013, initially finding it challenging to attract participants. However, her persistence led to the growth of Harlem Run, which became a significant community initiative. Today, Harlem Run continues to thrive with a dedicated leadership team.
“I really had this sense that the way that running saved my life, it could save other people's lives.”
“Her tenacity paid off. That run club would eventually become an integral part of Alison's life and career as a writer, activist, and TV host.”
“So I was really, really intentional about making sure that it was a space where people could show up as their authentic selves, where it wasn't about how fast you were, it was about improvement.”