Jamon Johnson

The peace I feel when running, the connectedness I feel when meditating, the energy I feel through healthy eating, the joy I feel when I inspire others, are all fuel. My father, who passed from prostate cancer, was a major motivator in my health journey. His fight inspired me to run the Chicago Marathon twice with the American Cancer Society. It also created an elevated focus on mental and physical health and wellness, not just for myself, but others around me as well, especially black men.

I love to run. I started running track at 8 years old. The joy I felt from running fast has evolved into a form of therapy through long distance running. It has been a way for me to find tranquility while also pushing my mind and body at the same time. I appreciate not just the feeling I get but the accomplishment I feel throughout the process and after race day.

I would invest some of the money into my brand Small Wooden Box and the dance studio, Sha'Ran Studios, where I am a managing partner. In each business I have unique opportunities to inspire through creativity and build meaningful partnerships with the community and different organizations. This money could assist in providing the resources needed to grow and support our work and the people we can positively impact.