I’m over in Phoenix, Arizona, today and tomorrow for the 6th Annual P.F. Chang Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon & ½ Marathon. Like I do at most road races, I’m here to meet and greet our customers; share samples of our wheat-, gluten-, and dairy-free nutrition bars; support race participants by answering questions about running-related nutrition; and, hand out samples of the award-winning line of PureFit Nutrition Bars.

Unlike other events I attend, this one allows me to spend time with my old friend, Todd Crandell, Founder and Executive Director of Racing for Recovery, a 501(c)3 non-profit foundation that aims to prevent substance abuse in adolescents and individuals and offers running as a positive alternative to those currently battling addiction.

Todd’s connection to Race for Recovery’s mission is best told through the following story from ESPN:

If you’re in Phoenix for the race, you can meet Todd at the PureFit booth (#317), where he’ll be signing autographs from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. today, and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. tomorrow (Saturday the 17th). If you’re reading this from afar and want to learn more about Todd or Racing for Recovery, visit the Racing for Recovery website and blog.