How it Works

The wear blue Gold Star Youth Program is designed as a multi-month mentorship and run training program. After careful screening, currently serving members of our armed forces are paired with a Gold Star youth. Our participating youth children range in ages 6 to 16 years old. 

The program requires a commitment from mentors and youth every Saturday in the spring with specific start dates varying by location, at established weekly wear blue community runs. The weekly runs follow a prescribed training plan, culminating in a special Gold Star Youth 5k. Gold Star youth receive technical running shoes and gear, and both youth and mentors receive personalized wear blue: run to remember training shirts. 

On race day, the mentor's training and guidance will allow the Gold Star child to proudly participate with athletes and honored guests at wear blue's run. It will be a meaningful day to celebrate and remember the parents of our Gold Star children, as well as all of our nation's fallen heroes.

wear blue is grateful for the generous support of Amazon and The USAA Foundation.

Gold Star Youth Sign-Up

wear blue: run to remember invites youth ages 6 to 16 who have lost a parent as a result of their military service during Operation Iraqi Freedom and or Operation Enduring Freedom after September 11, 2001 to participate in a mentorship running program. Join our mentors to develop healthy coping habits for continued healing and growth, while reconnecting our Gold Star children with their identities as military children.

NOTE: The 2023 program currently operates for families in the Fairchild Air Force Base, WA; Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA; Joint Base San Antonio, TX; Fort Bragg, NC and Ft. Campbell, KY communities.