Runner ventures across the U.S. to raise money for drug and violence awareness

By Staff Writer

John Radich is running across the continental U.S. in an effort to keep kids off drugs and away from gangs.

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that the 56-year-old man has raised about $100,000 for The Trans USA Run for The Way to Happiness Foundation, a nonprofit organization that aims to keep children away from negative behavior. Radich left Santa Monica, California on the Fourth of July and he expects to arrive at his final destination, Atlantic City, New Jersey, by Thanksgiving.

The news provider reports that he has logged nearly 3,000 miles as of November 8, and he has been joined by other runners during certain stretches of terrain. Radich said that the most difficult period of his run came in his home state of California, where he battled summertime temperatures up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Review of East Liverpool, Ohio reports that Radich decided to embark on the cross-country journey to raise money for the youth of America, which he said is a good investment because they are the future of the U.S.

According to a study conducted by the Office of National Drug Control Policy, 30 percent of teenagers reported illicit drug use.