What drives someone to run 100 miles through rugged mountain trails, facing darkness, exhaustion, and pain? For Christopher Porcaro, the answer is simple: purpose. This September, the Seattle-based father and outdoor enthusiast completed the Mountain Lakes 100-mile ultramarathon in Oregon, raising over $6,200 for UNITY and Indigenous Earth, two organizations dedicated to supporting Native youth and the environment.
His effort also secured a donation of 100 pairs of trail running shoes from HOKA, which UNITY will distribute at their 2025 Midyear Conference to empower Native youth and promote wellness through physical activity.
Running with Heart
“I’ve often wondered if something like trail running could have provided my brother with a healthy outlet,” Christopher shared on his GoFundMe page. After witnessing his brother’s struggle with substance abuse and mental health, which tragically ended in suicide, Christopher turned his passion for trail running into a platform for change.
“Substance abuse and mental health disorders are some of the most pressing issues faced by Native youth,” he wrote. “According to Indian Health Services, American Indians have the highest rate of suicide of any minority group in the U.S. These rates have been increasing since 2003.”
Christopher’s run was not just a physical feat but a mission to address these challenges. “One hundred percent of the donations will go to UNITY and Indigenous Earth,” he said, “both of which are fostering real solutions to the growing mental health battles Native youth face today.”
A Journey of Resilience
Christopher’s journey through the Mountain Lakes 100 was as much about mental endurance as physical strength. “The race is over. One hundred miles. A journey in and out of the darkness; up and over mountains,” he reflected. “It was a journey I may not have been able to complete if it wasn’t for the purpose behind those miles.”
The funds raised will directly support UNITY’s initiatives to foster the spiritual, mental, physical, and social development of Native youth. These programs help Native youth build resilience, celebrate their culture, and find healthy outlets for their challenges.
A Gift for the Future
Thanks to Christopher’s partnership with HOKA, UNITY will distribute 100 pairs of high-quality trail running shoes to Native youth during the 2025 Midyear Conference. “Physical activity and the outdoors can be transformative for mental health,” Christopher said. “I hope these shoes inspire Native youth to explore the trails and find healing in nature.”
UNITY’s leadership echoed their gratitude for Christopher’s effort. “This gift of running shoes and the funds raised will have a lasting impact on our youth,” said Frank Weaver, UNITY Honorary Earth Ambassador. “Chris pushed the limits of body and soul to support mental health initiatives for Native youth, showing what dedication and purpose can achieve.”
Amplifying Awareness
Christopher’s run and the donations it inspired highlight the importance of community support and collective action. Events like the Mountain Lakes 100 are vital for raising awareness about the struggles Native youth face and the need for actionable solutions.
“It’s through education, advocacy, and tangible resources that we can empower Native youth to overcome these challenges,” Christopher said. “This run was just one step toward that goal.”
A Call to Action
Christopher’s efforts remind us all of the power of dedication and community. By turning his personal loss into a mission for change, he has not only honored his brother’s memory but also created opportunities for Native youth to thrive.
To support Christopher’s ongoing mission, visit his GoFundMe page.
Learn more about UNITY’s programs and the HOKA donation initiative here.
Together, we can foster hope, resilience, and a brighter future for Native youth.