From our 20th anniversary 5K to the NYC Marathon, Team Odyssey proves that recovery thrives on community and determination.
20 Years of Running for Recovery
For twenty years, Odyssey House’s Run for Your Life program has brought together people in recovery, their families, and the broader community to celebrate health, achievement, and the power of perseverance. What began as a single 5K on Randall’s Island has grown into a year-round movement that changes lives — both on and off the course.
This September, we marked the 20th anniversary of the Run for Your Life 5K, a milestone that drew hundreds of participants to Randall’s Island Park for a day filled with energy, encouragement, and connection. Clients, alumni, staff, and friends ran side by side with supporters from across New York City’s recovery and treatment community.
John Tavolacci, EVP, COO, and Executive Director of Odyssey Foundation, said, “Run for Your Life has turned into more than just a 5K — it’s a community party with a great vibe. It brings people together.” Participants agreed, with one saying, “I’ve run in many races, but I’ve never felt more at home than I did today. This community lifts you up every step of the way.”
The event has become a cornerstone of our mission to promote wellness and recovery through physical fitness, building camaraderie and pride among everyone who takes part.
Team Odyssey Takes on the Marathon
That spirit of accomplishment was on full display again this fall as Team Odyssey took on the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon. Under the guidance of Director of Recreational Services Andre Matthews, 52 clients, alumni, staff, and charity runners conquered one of the world’s most challenging road races. Each runner carried a personal story of resilience — a testament to how far they’ve come and how much they’ve overcome.
For many in recovery, running provides structure, focus, and a tangible sense of progress. The discipline it takes to train for a race mirrors the daily commitment required to stay sober and rebuild one’s life.
“Addiction is a disease, not only physically, but it also kills your spirit, and accomplishment is a great remedy.”
— John Tavolacci
This year also marked Odyssey House’s fifth year as an official TCS New York City Marathon Charity Partner. Charity runners from across the country joined the team to fundraise for the Odyssey Foundation, collectively raising more than $80,000 to support our residential and outpatient treatment programs, supportive housing, and family services.
Recovery in Motion
The success of both events — the anniversary 5K and the marathon — underscores the deep connection between wellness and recovery. Running offers not just physical benefits but emotional ones: confidence, community, and a renewed sense of purpose. As participants crossed each finish line, they did so not only as athletes but as examples of what’s possible when determination meets hope.
Twenty years in, Run for Your Life continues to inspire and unite. It’s more than a race — it’s a movement that reminds us all that recovery, like running, happens one step at a time.
Meet members of Team Odyssey
Max Eisenstat
Odyssey House graduate and Recovery Coach
For Max, Run for Your Life is about more than fitness — it’s about belonging. “Run for Your Life is a support network that encourages you and champions you no matter where you’re at. When one person succeeds, we all succeed, and that’s how we support each other.
“As an intern and now, a recovery coach, knowing that people can look to me for guidance really built up my self-esteem and my self-worth. I didn’t really have that before I came to Odyssey House. I thought so low of myself from my addictions. But with my recovery, I’ve gained back those things that make me who I am, that make me special.”
Sandra Mendez
Odyssey House client
Sandra was introduced to the Run For Your Life program by Mary Callahan, Senior Manager, Director of Admissions, Outpatient & Recovery Support Services. “Ever since I started running, I’ve learned how to turn my pain into fuel, helping me push through challenges and heal emotionally.
“I ran the marathon as part of Team Odyssey to celebrate my progress and remind myself how far I’ve come. Running has become an important part of my recovery; it clears my mind, strengthens my body, and helps me push through challenges one mile at a time. Each step reminds me that I am capable of change, discipline, and resilience.”
Dr. Uju Berry
Odyssey House Board Member
Dr. Berry joined Team Odyssey for her first marathon in memory of her father, who passed away last year. “He was someone who pushed himself physically and mentally every day, but what inspired me most was how deeply he cared for others. He always found ways to support people in need, and this run is my way of carrying that legacy forward.”
Dr. Berry is a child and adolescent psychiatrist at NYU Langone’s Child Study Center, where she provides trauma-informed, evidence-based care for young people and families. She also serves as Medical Director at NYC Health + Hospitals, leading mental health initiatives that reach survivors of domestic violence and other vulnerable communities.
Jason Wanderscheid
Odyssey House Charity Runner
Jason traveled from Texas to join Team Odyssey for his ninth marathon. For him, running became a way to reclaim his health and his life after his father’s death. “My father’s passing at 55 was a wake-up call. It took time to face it, but two years later, at 270 pounds, I ran my first mile—one step that’s since led to losing over 100 pounds.
“I ran for Odyssey House because recovery, resilience, and second chances matter. Running has taught me that progress is built one step at a time, and that same mindset fuels the work Odyssey House does every day. I’m proud to use my miles to support people rebuilding their lives and finding hope again.”