RBO’S NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: JESSICA DE LEON!
We are thrilled to share exciting news! The Board of Directors of Running for a Better Oakland (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. 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.
RBO’s Mission
Running for a Better Oakland is a non-profit organization that encourages K-12th grade Oakland students to develop healthy lifestyles through running. By providing training and encouragement, RBO helps students build confidence and set goals, giving them tools for achievement and hard work they can draw on in all areas of their lives.
RBO’s Vision
RBO strives to build a tolerant, healthy, and prosperous community. Through the discipline and rigor of a structured running program, RBO’s goal is to create new relationships, establish trust, build self-esteem, and empower students, parents, and volunteers.
Empowering Young Runners
Produced, directed, and edited by Arianna Ayala and Kellen Balla of Anbu Media
Ready to get involved?
Whether you are an experienced runner or just getting started, we would love to have you run with us this season! We meet on Saturday mornings at Snow Park by Lake Merritt during the fall and spring seasons.
“My son likes to exercise with his friends around, and my daughter is shy, but running with others opens her up. They love RBO.”