THIRST begins with one person daring to do something that seems impossible—a bold act that serves as both a statement and an invitation. The Leadville 100-mile run is a visible, physical expression of an inner thirst—a deep, unstoppable desire for transformation. It's not just about endurance; it's about showing that change is possible. Our hope is that others will feel this same thirst and strive to make a difference in their own ways to bring hope to those living with mental illness and the people who love them.

Byron Tapp prepares for the Leadville Silver Rush 50 mile race in the summer of 2024.
Byron Tapp prepares for the Leadville Silver Rush 50 mile race in the summer of 2024.
Race founder's prepare the runners.
Byron Tapp races the Leadville Silver Rush 50 mile race in the summer of 2024.
Byron Tapp races the Leadville Silver Rush 50 mile race in the summer of 2024.
Byron Tapp races the Leadville Silver Rush 50 mile race in the summer of 2024.
Byron Tapp races the Leadville Silver Rush 50 mile race in the summer of 2024.
Byron Tapp races the Leadville Silver Rush 50 mile race in the summer of 2024.
Byron Tapp finishes the Leadville Silver Rush 50 mile race in the summer of 2024.
Byron Tapp races the Leadville Silver Rush 50 mile race in the summer of 2024.
Byron Tapp finishes the Leadville Silver Rush 50 mile race in the summer of 2024.
Byron Tapp finishes the Leadville Silver Rush 50 mile race in the summer of 2024.

Our Thirst and Commitment

THIRST is driven by a deep, unrelenting desire to bring awareness, empathy, and understanding to the personal and shared struggles of living with the impacts of mental illness. We believe that real change begins with a shift in knowledge, perspective, and belief—and we are committed to being part of that shift.

But we don't stop there.

We actively advocate for meaningful, systemic change—change that leads to real hope, real help, real healing and real life. Our commitment is local and tangible: we work to influence how mental health is understood and supported with medical systems, medication access, insurance coverage, judicial decisions, church communities, philanthropic focus, local leadership, and the support structures that hold our communities together.

 FAQs

  • 100% of your donations through Thirst will be directly used toward bringing awareness and understanding, support and solutions that can directly impact those living with the impacts of mental illness.  The focus of Thirst is new.  The details and specific initiatives will continue to gain clarity with Thirst’s local governing board and advisory team over the next few months as we become familiar with donations results, resources and opportunities.  We have a high commitment to limit administrative costs and expense… this is a completely volunteer organization.  If you have a ideas for how the donations could be allocated, please fill out this form.

  • Yes, donations are deductible from federal income taxes. The Thirst Charity is officially classified and approved as a 501(c)(3) public charity. For donations of $250 or more, a written acknowledgment will be mailed/emailed by January 31st of the following calendar year if address or email is provided at the time of donation. For donations under $250, records such as canceled checks, bank statements, credit card statements, invoices, bills, or account statements are sufficient for receipts.

  • Thirst is not intended to be just about running 100 miles.  That was just a beginning.  Our desire is that Thirst is a vehicle for others who “thirst” to make a difference in the lives of those living with the impacts of mental illness.  We would love to hear your idea to bring awareness and raise funds in the name of hope for mental illness. You can learn more about a THIRST initiative and apply for your own here.

  • We will have social media platforms connected soon. Until then, you can send us an email at thethirstcharity@gmail.com or track us down in the grocery store.  Please be patience with our response time.  Most of the team will be supporting the current Leadville 100 Mile Trail Race initiative in addition to holding down our day jobs.