Frequently Asked Questions:

General Questions:

    • DEGU Run Club is a welcoming, inclusive community where people of all ages and abilities can move, laugh, and grow together. Whether you walk, roll, or run — alongside siblings, parents, or friends — everyone belongs here.

    • Anyone can participate! DEGU Run Club welcomes people of all ages, abilities, and experience levels — from first-time walkers to seasoned runners. Families, friends, and individuals alike are encouraged to join in the fun.

    • No — participants do not need to run the whole time. DEGU Run Club welcomes walkers, joggers, and anyone who wants to move at their own pace. The goal is to have fun, stay active, and be part of the community.

    • A typical DEGU Run Club session is relaxed and flexible. We start with a brief warm-up, followed by group movement at your own pace — whether walking, jogging or running. At the end, we come together for a final lap as one group, then cool down and share a few laughs. Sessions are designed to be fun, inclusive, and supportive for all ages and abilities.

    • Yes — parents/caregivers must stay during sessions. While we do have volunteers to help, parents/caregivers’ presence is required to ensure safety and a positive experience for all participants, especially children.

Volunteer Questions:

    • Volunteering with DEGU Run Club means being part of an inclusive, supportive community that believes everyone belongs in movement, no matter their pace, ability, or needs. Our focus is on encouragement, safety, and fun—not speed or performance.

    • Volunteers help create a welcoming environment where runners and families feel comfortable showing up exactly as they are.

    • Support runners at their own pace by accompanying them walking, jogging, or running, and encouraging all preferences—from short distances and breaks to continuous running.

    • Help run activity stations by assisting with fun movement breaks, supporting simple skill-building (balance, coordination, strength, social skills), and explaining or modeling activities as needed.

    • Be a positive, calm presence by offering encouragement and patience, fostering a safe, judgment-free environment, and supporting communication needs with flexibility.

    • Assist families and the community by welcoming participants, helping with set-up or clean-up, and communicating with the DEGU team when extra support is needed.

    • You do not need to be a fast runner or “coach”

        •    You do not need special training (guidance is provided)

        •    You are not responsible for therapy or one-on-one behavior management

    •  Kind, patient, and encouraging

        •    Comfortable with flexibility and different abilities

        •    Enjoys being part of a community

        •    Believes movement should be fun and accessible

Logistic Questions:

    • DEGU Run Club meets every Saturday from 9:00–10:00 AM at the Bluffton Middle School track.

    • Participants and volunteers should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and supportive shoes for walking or running. Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, any personal items you need, and most importantly—a smile and positive energy!

    • In case of bad weather, sessions may be canceled. You will be notified in advance if a session is canceled.

    • Absolutely not! DEGU Run Club is completely free for all participants and volunteers.

    • Yes — everyone is welcome! DEGU Run Club encourages families, friends, and participants of all ages to join the fun together.