‍Terra Running Company will be posting a series of blogs highlighting races we will be working with this Fall. Get to know our friends at South Cleveland Church of God’s Recovery Alive Program and join Terra Running at their race: September 12, 2026, in Cleveland. Learn more and register at https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Cleveland/RA5kRunForHope.

Q: First things first! Can you introduce yourself and your organization to our readers?

A: I'm Brian Keplinger and I'm the Director of Recovery Alive at the South Cleveland Church of God. As someone who is in recovery myself, I know the necessary tool of having a program like Recovery Alive. Is was programs like Recovery Alive that not only helped me stay sober, but gave me community, purpose and a place of belonging by getting to the root of my struggles.

Recovery Alive has thrived to be a lighthouse for those hurting with any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. For the last 11, Recovery Alive has been a place where others can find that hope that so many others, including myself, have found. We meet every Thursday Night at the South Cleveland Church of God.

We believe in connecting people to what we call the 3 P's. The POWER. We want people to come in contact with a Power that can heal and guide their life. We believe that God has the Power to heal and fulfill any person who is seeking him. The People. We then want to connect others with a community of people who can engage with them right where they are to give them the support and love that they need. The Process. Recovery is a choice, followed by a process. This process is helping others take off the mask and be willing to deal with areas of their life that they may have tried to suppress or keep hidden for so long.

Q: Terra Running is excited to be part of your race this fall! How long has the race been going on?

A: Our 5k has been running for 4 years.

Q: What is the course like?

A: Flat, fast course on the Cleveland Greenway.

Q: What does the race raise money for?

A: Funding the program of Recovery Alive

Q: What do runners and walkers get for participating in the race?

A: Shirt and medals for winner of different age groups.

Q: What is something unique about your race you would like people to know?

A: Many of the people running in this raise have been through the program themselves and this is a way for them to give back.

Q: What was the idea behind the race?

A: To promote community involvement and raise funds.