RBO’s New Executive Director: Jessica de Leon

We are thrilled to share exciting news! The Board of Directors of RBO has appointed Jessica (JDL) de Leon as our new Interim Executive Director.

Jess is a Bay Area native, passionate runner, and community leader. She brings more than a decade of leadership experience, a commitment to youth engagement, and strong partnership-building skills. As the founder of Hella Bae Running, a Bay Area–based women’s running community, she has shown how running can connect, inspire, and empower people of all ages.

JDL was never a runner. However, what started as a “bucket list” goal turned into a lifelong passion after she completed her first half marathon at the Disneyland Half Marathon. Since then, she’s been hooked—completing 5 of the 7 World Major Marathons, 17 full marathons, 60+ half marathons, and countless relays, including the infamous The Speed Project.

Born and raised in San Francisco, JDL loves exploring the Bay through shared miles with the baes. You can often find her chasing her 4-year-old #minibae at local kids’ races, logging stroller miles with her 19-month-old twins on the Peninsula, or planning the next relay or “racecation” for the crew.

Outside of running, JDL works in the tech industry specializing in HR technology. She has also grown her passion for running into coaching, earning certifications as both an RRCA Level 1 Certified Coach and USATF Level 1 Coach. JDL is CPR, AED, and first aid certified. 

We are excited to have Jess lead RBO as we launch our Fall 2025 Season on September 20th. Please join us in welcoming her and supporting this exciting new chapter for our organization.

We're Hiring a Program Coordinator — Help Kids Go the Distance!

Running for a Better Oakland (RBO) is seeking a dedicated and organized Program Coordinator to help lead our youth running programs and inspire the next generation of Oakland runners. If you thrive in fast-paced environments, enjoy working with students and families, and want to make a real impact in the community, we’d love to hear from you!

Position Summary:

Under the supervision of the Executive Director, the Program Coordinator will manage operations for RBO’s youth running programs. The Program Coordinator will be responsible for managing event preparation (including sourcing and maintaining equipment, preparing and printing documents, providing customer support to registrants, executing compliance verification procedures, and recruiting volunteers as needed), equipment transportation (including loading/unloading equipment, performing basic maintenance, tracking inventory and reporting lost/damaged/missing items), and event day operations (including delivering announcements, facilitating check-in/check-out procedures, tracking attendance, overseeing timing procedures, and coordinating volunteers).

Working Hours and Compensation:

Approximately 10 hours per week at $28.30 per hour. Availability on weekends is essential. Hours fluctuate with the annual schedule, increasing during the season and decreasing during the offseason.

Responsibilities:

● Event Preparation
○ Purchase fresh fruit for the snack table.
○ Fill water coolers.
○ Prepare and print documents including name tags, check-in sheets, signs, etc.
○ Charge and maintain two-way radios.
○ Pick-up program race entries and organize them for distribution.
○ Manage ongoing registrations and provide customer support to registrants via email and phone.
○ Regularly verify compliance documents online and send updates to registrants.
○ Recruit volunteers from the RBO community for events as needed.

● Equipment Transportation
○ Transport all necessary equipment from the RBO storage unit to the event and back.
○ Maintain equipment and report lost/damaged equipment to ED.

● Event Day Operations
○ Arrive early to clear event space and set-up equipment.
○ Supervise and direct volunteers, make sure they are guided to their stations.
○ Oversee check-in process and assist with same-day registrations.
○ Process attendance data after check-in.
○ Lead daily announcements at the beginning of each practice.
○ Lead pre-race walkthroughs, manage start/finish line procedures, provide customer service to runners and team coaches at races.
○ Manage race timing procedures, record finishing times/places, announce preliminary winners, and manually enter official times online.
○ Lead check out procedures, call families of students that do not check out.
○ Pack up equipment and ensure the venue is left clean after each event.
○ Proactively solve problems as they arise throughout each race.

● Participate in professional development opportunities and complete program-related training and certifications.
● Assist the Executive Director in coordinating and executing RBO projects, events and activities.
● Demonstrate enthusiasm about working in a non-profit environment and maintain a positive, solutions-oriented attitude in all situations.

Skills (Required):

● Flexible schedule and availability to work weekends.
● Outstanding communication skills and the ability to respond promptly to texts, phone calls, emails, and other communications.
● Ability to work as a team member towards common goals and objectives.
● Proactive approach to work, desire to take initiative in solving problems.
● Self-motivated to complete work independently and in a timely manner.
● Ability to maintain impeccable customer service in fast-paced, stressful situations.
● Ability to connect with students and motivate them to work hard to accomplish their goals.
● Ability to work effectively across cultures and a commitment to learning, communicating, and working respectfully with people from different backgrounds.
● Demonstrate strong written, verbal, technical, interpersonal, and public communication skills to establish and maintain program objectives, policies and procedures, and effective partnerships/working relationships within all organizational levels and external agencies.

Skills (Preferred):

● Fluency in Spanish, ability to translate written materials into Spanish.
● Experience working in a non-profit organization with volunteers and children.
● Experience working with children, parents, schools, and/or community organizations to provide programs to young people and/or families in the greater Oakland area.
● Experience with community sports programs, coaching, team management, or athletic administration.
● A deep passion for running and the positive impact that running can have on young people’s lives.

Physical Demands and Working Environment:
● Ability to work on a computer, phone, and tablet.
● Ability to look at a computer screen for long periods of time.
● Ability to lift at least 50 pounds (reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities).

Requirements:

● The candidate must successfully pass a background check including DOJ Live Scan.
● The candidate must obtain a negative TB test.
● The candidate must travel to various locations in Oakland and throughout the Bay Area.
● High energy, approachable and friendly demeanor.
● Desire to work in Oakland with students and families from the greater Oakland area.
● Must be available to work weekends and early hours, particularly Saturday mornings.
● Reliable vehicle that can transport necessary program equipment.

Application instructions:

To apply for this position, send your resume and cover letter to director@rboakland.org with the subject line “Program Coordinator Application - [Your Name]”. Due to the high volume of applications and our current staff size, unfortunately we will not be able to respond to every application that we receive.

Equal Opportunity

Running for a Better Oakland is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, parental status, ancestry, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information about your EEO rights as an applicant, please click here.

Running for a Better Oakland will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c). External hires must pass a post-offer, pre-employment background check/drug screen. Qualified applicants with an arrest and/or conviction will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with federal and state laws, as well as applicable local ordinances, ban the box laws, including but not limited to the San Francisco and Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinances. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us at rboboardchair@rboakland.org and let us know the nature of your request. We will only respond to messages left that involve a request for a reasonable accommodation in the application process. We will accommodate the needs of any qualified candidate who requests a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).



Celebrating Success and Setting New Goals: A Look Back at the Oakland Marathon

Las month, the energy in Oakland was palpable as Running for a Better Oakland (RBO) made a significant mark at the Oakland Marathon. Our community, consisting of over 183 passionate runners — which included more than 100 students, 15 coaches and youth coaches, along with nearly 60 run mentors — brought their weeks of dedication and hard training to the forefront of this iconic race.

The journey to the marathon was not an easy one. Our athletes braved three challenging weeks of training at Snow Park, facing the cold and wet weather head-on. Yet, their perseverance paid off as they took to the streets of downtown Oakland and the scenic route around Lake Merritt. It wasn't just a race; it was the culmination of weeks of effort, a beautiful day to run and a fantastic start to our schedule of races and fun runs.

A notable highlight from this year's marathon was the increased participation in the 10K race. This uptick is a testament to the hard work our students have put in, pushing themselves to embrace bigger challenges. Their dedication was reflected in numerous achievements - from personal bests (PR times) and new distance records to the countless smiles shared among friends, family, and supporters.

These milestones are not just personal achievements but are emblematic of the growth and resilience of our community. They inspire us to set new goals and reach even greater heights together each season.

The journey doesn't stop here; we have our sights set on the next challenge. On April 13th, we will venture for the first time The Oyster Bay Fun Run where we will be running both 3 & 5-mile distances. This upcoming race presents another opportunity for our runners to break records, achieve new personal bests, and most importantly, enjoy the journey together!

The success of our community in the Oakland Marathon and the enthusiasm for the upcoming Redwood Trail Race is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve as a community. It underscores the importance of setting ambitious goals, supporting one another, and celebrating every victory along the way.

As we move forward, let's carry the spirit of the Oakland Marathon with us - a spirit of determination, joy, and community. Here's to many more miles, smiles, and achievements. Together, we are Running for a Better Oakland!

Celebrando el Éxito y Estableciendo Nuevos Objetivos: Un Vistazo al Fin de Semana del Maratón de Oakland

El pasado mes de Marzo, la energía en Oakland era palpable mientras Running for a Better Oakland (RBO) dejaba una marca significativa en el Maratón de Oakland. Nuestro grupo, compuesto por más de 183 corredores apasionados, que incluía a más de 100 estudiantes, 15 entrenadores y entrenadores juveniles, junto con casi 60 mentores de carrera, llevaron sus semanas de dedicación y duro entrenamiento al frente de esta carrera icónica.

El camino hacia el maratón no fue fácil. Nuestros atletas desafiaron tres semanas difíciles de entrenamiento en Snow Park, enfrentándose al clima frío y húmedo de frente. Sin embargo, su perseverancia valió la pena de manera hermosa cuando tomaron las calles del centro de Oakland y la pintoresca ruta alrededor del Lago Merritt. No fue solo un día de carrera; fue un hermoso día para correr, encarnando el espíritu de nuestra comunidad y marcando un comienzo fantástico para nuestro calendario de carreras y carreras divertidas.

Un punto destacado notable del maratón de este año fue el aumento en la participación en la carrera de 6 millas. Este aumento es un testimonio del arduo trabajo que nuestros estudiantes han puesto, empujándose a sí mismos para abrazar desafíos más grandes. Su dedicación se reflejó en numerosos logros, desde los mejores tiempos personales (tiempos PR) y nuevos récords de distancia hasta las innumerables sonrisas compartidas entre amigos, familiares y seguidores.

Estos hits no son solo logros personales, sino que son emblemáticos del crecimiento y la resiliencia de nuestra comunidad. Nos inspiran a establecer nuevos objetivos y alcanzar alturas aún mayores juntos.

Con este impulso, nos complace anunciar que nuestro programa de entrenamiento continuará, llevándonos de regreso a Snow Park para la Práctica #5 este sábado. El viaje no termina aquí; tenemos la mira puesta en el próximo desafío. El 13 de Abril, nos aventuraremos a Oyster Bay Regional Park donde correremos distancias de 3 y 5 millas. Esta próxima carrera presenta otra oportunidad para que nuestros corredores rompan récords, logren nuevos mejores tiempos personales y, lo más importante, disfruten del viaje juntos.

El éxito de nuestra participación en el Maratón de Oakland y el entusiasmo por la próxima Carrera de Sendero Redwood es un recordatorio poderoso de lo que podemos lograr como comunidad. Subraya la importancia de establecer objetivos ambiciosos,

Reflecting on a Remarkable Year of Running: RBO's 2023 Recap (English / Spanish Version)


As we embark on the journey of 2024, it's time to take a moment and reflect on the incredible journey we've had at Running for a Better Oakland (RBO) on 2023. The year kicked off on January 14, 2023, marking the beginning of a season filled with determination, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments.

Our base for 14 invigorating practices was the picturesque Lake Merritt, providing the perfect backdrop for our runners to push their limits and build lasting friendships. But our journey didn't stop there; we ventured into some of the East Bay's most stunning locations, turning our runs into scenic adventures.

From the iconic Bay Bridge to the serene Redwood Regional Park, the challenging trails of Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Park to the tranquil shores of Lake Chabot, and the inspiring Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline, every run was a unique experience that showcased the diverse beauty of our surroundings.

Adding to the excitement were special guests who graced us with their presence during select practices. The UC Berkeley Cross Country and Track & Field teams, Lake Merritt Joggers & Striders, East Bay Front Runners, Pamakid Runners, Women’s Run Club East Bay, and the San Jose Sharks all lent their expertise, creating memorable and motivating sessions for our runners.

One of the highlights of the year was the 2023 Scholarship and Alumni Award ceremony, where RBO distributed over $20,000 in scholarship awards. This not only reflects our commitment to fostering a love for running but also underlines our dedication to supporting the educational aspirations of our talented young athletes.

As the year wound down, we laced up our running shoes for the Oakland Turkey Trot, a festive race around Lake Merritt that brought together families, friends, and runners of all ages. The joyous atmosphere and holiday cheer made it a fitting conclusion to an exceptional year.

None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of our parents, dedicated coaches, and passionate volunteers who contribute their time and energy to make RBO a reality for our kids. Your commitment is the heartbeat of our organization, and we are deeply grateful for all that you do.

As we eagerly step into 2024, we carry the memories of 2023 with us. We look forward to crossing many starting lines together, facing new challenges, and creating even more unforgettable moments. Thank you for being a part of the RBO family, and here's to another year of running, growth, and success!

RESUMEN DE UN Año INOLVIDABLE: RBO 2023

Al emprender el camino del 2024, es momento de tomarnos un instante para reflexionar sobre la increíble travesía que vivimos en Running for a Better Oakland (RBO) en el 2023. El año comenzó el 14 de enero de 2023, marcando el inicio de una temporada llena de determinación, camaradería y momentos inolvidables.

Nuestra base para 14 prácticas fue el pintoresco Lake Merritt, brindando el escenario perfecto para que nuestros corredores desafiaran sus límites y construyeran amistades duraderas. Pero nuestra travesía no se detuvo ahí; nos aventuramos en algunas de las ubicaciones más impresionantes del East Bay, convirtiendo nuestras carreras en aventuras escénicas.

Desde el icónico Bay Bridge hasta el sereno Redwood Regional Park, los desafiantes senderos de Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Park hasta las tranquilas orillas de Lake Chabot, y el inspirador Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline, cada carrera fue una experiencia única que mostró la diversa belleza de nuestro entorno.

Añadiendo emoción estuvieron los invitados especiales que nos honraron con su presencia en algunas prácticas. Los equipos de Cross Country y Atletismo de UC Berkeley, Lake Merritt Joggers & Striders, East Bay Front Runners, Pamakid Runners, Women’s Run Club East Bay y los San Jose Sharks aportaron su experiencia, creando sesiones memorables y motivadoras para nuestros corredores.

Uno de los momentos destacados del año fue la ceremonia de Becas y Premios de Antiguos Alumnos de 2023, donde RBO distribuyó más de $20,000 en becas. Esto no solo refleja nuestro compromiso de fomentar el amor por el running, sino que también subraya nuestra dedicación para apoyar las aspiraciones educativas de nuestros talentosos jóvenes atletas.

A medida que el año llegaba a su fin, nos pusimos nuestros zapatos de running para el Oakland Turkey Trot, una carrera festiva alrededor de Lake Merritt que reunió a familias, amigos y corredores de todas las edades. La atmosfera alegre y el espíritu navideño le dieron un cierre apropiado a un año excepcional.

Nada de esto hubiera sido posible sin el apoyo inquebrantable de nuestros padres, dedicados entrenadores y apasionados voluntarios que contribuyen con su tiempo y energía para hacer de RBO una realidad para nuestros niños. Su compromiso es el latido del corazón de nuestra organización, y estamos profundamente agradecidos por todo lo que hacen.

Al entrar con entusiasmo en 2024, llevamos con nosotros los recuerdos de 2023. Esperamos cruzar juntos muchas líneas de salida, enfrentar nuevos desafíos y crear aún más momentos inolvidables. Gracias por ser parte de la familia RBO, ¡y brindemos por otro año de running, crecimiento y éxito!

Running for a Better Oakland Announces Major Donation from Pamakid Runners

[Oakland - July 17th, 2023] - Running for a Better Oakland (RBO), a non-profit community running program, is pleased to announce a substantial donation from Pamakid Runners, a San Francisco Bay Area running club. The club’s remarkable gift of $46,646 will enable RBO to expand its impact on students in the greater Oakland area. 

Pamakid Runners has been a generous supporter of RBO for nearly 10 years. This is the second time that Pamakid Runners has given Running for a Better Oakland the largest donation in its 13 year history. Pamakid Runners and Running for Better Oakland are using running and local races to promote healthy lifestyles and community for Bay Area students and their families. 

"We are immensely grateful to Pamakid Runners for their extraordinary support over the years and particularly for this incredibly generous gift," said Byron McGovern, RBO’s Executive Director. "Their significant contribution will directly benefit our students, youth coaches, and volunteers by enhancing the services we provide during our Fall and Spring seasons, including providing free race entries and new, high-quality running shoes for every student. We are committed to maximizing the impact of this donation and expanding our capacity to help students develop critical life skills that will help them succeed both in races and beyond the finish line.”

“Pamakid Runners take great pride in promoting a healthy lifestyle and supporting Running for a Better Oakland, which is making a positive difference in our local community by encouraging, empowering and providing opportunities for our youth through running,” said Jerry Flanagan, President of Pamakid Runners.

Running for a Better Oakland is preparing for its 24th season providing Oakland students with everything they need to train and compete in local races and fun runs. Thanks to the generous contributions of donors like Pamakid Runners, we are able to continue offering our program for free to students, youth coaches, and volunteers. Everyone is welcome to join RBO during our upcoming Fall 2023 season that begins on September 16th!

For more information about Running for a Better Oakland, its mission, and the impact of this generous donation, please visit RBOakland.org. For more information about Pamakid Runners, please visit pamakidrunners.org.

Congratulations Seniors!

Congratulations are in order for the graduating RBO Senior Class of 2022! Our nine seniors have put in countless hours of hard work and dedication towards their education, not to mention training for half marathon and 10k races. With the confidence they’ve gained through the rigors of training for a half marathon/10k with RBO, we are confident they are equipped with the resilience and perseverance to pursue their future endeavors with strength!

Surrounded by our Donors, volunteers, and families, RBO will recognize Christus, Wilder, Priya, Liya, Alex, SongXi, Jose, Yarely, and Clark for their achievements at the RBO Scholarship Ceremony on May 21st.

RRCA Announces RBO as Outstanding Youth Running Program of the Year

We are excited to share that RBO has been chosen as the recipient of the RRCA National Running Award for Outstanding Youth Running Program! Thank you to all who nominated us for this award- we are humbled, grateful, and overjoyed by this recognition for our organization.

With this award, RBO has gained national recognition, which will allow us to recruit, encourage, and support our Oakland youth to an elevated level. With the incredible support of our volunteers, coaches, staff, parents, and donors, Oakland youth will continue to thrive through the lessons learned from running, training, and persevering through tough challenges- both in running and in life. We are honored to have the privilege of playing a role in the lives of these students.

In November 2021, the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) granted RBO the Kids Run the Nation Grant, which provides financial assistance to running clubs, schools, and community-based nonprofits interested in implementing or currently hosting youth running programs.

Thank you, RRCA for this recognizing RBO. Now let’s continue to do what we do in supporting our Oakland youth through running!

See the official RRCA announcement here.

RRCA President George Rehmet and our RRCA State Representative Simone Adair with seniors Priya, Liya, Wilder, and Christus at a Saturday morning RBO practice.

Welcome Byron McGovern- RBO Program Coordinator

Join us in welcoming Byron McGovern as RBO’s newest Program Coordinator!

Byron joined our team just in time for the Spring season, and we are excited to have him on board. He will play a large role behind the scenes, as well as in person at our Saturday practices. Byron is excited to explore different ways to use running as a means to encourage growth mindset, facilitate social-emotional development, and achieve positive outcomes for young people in Oakland. He has coached several lacrosse teams throughout the Bay Area and was named US Lacrosse All-America Coach of the Year for Northern California in 2018. Byron is certified in CPR, AED, heat illness prevention, concussion management, and first aid.

Welcome to RBO, Byron!