Help Revive Last Lap Cornerstore

Last Lap Cornerstore opened its doors in 2021 as the only Black-owned home for the diverse running community of South Side Chicago. We did more than provide shoes and gear - we provided a safe space and celebrated runners' milestones: their first pair of shoes, their first run, finishing a big race, and accomplishing significant goals.

After 2.5 years of operating out of a converted 50ft shipping container inside Boxville in the historic Bronzeville neighborhood, I learned this model wasn't sustainable. I started with a very modest start up budget consisting of what I had in my bank account. Our shop was too small, off the beaten path, and not in a place where we could capitalize on the daily needed foot traffic. I know Last Lap can thrive. So the day I closed my doors. I made a promise that Last Lap Cornerstone would come back and continue to serve the community because as our motto says, We Run With You.

I’m asking you to run with us and the diverse running community of South Side Chicago. I’m asking for your support to revive this store. We’re looking to secure funds for rent, renovations, and inventory for a more accessible and community-centric storefront, allowing us to continue creating programming for runners as they look to build community and achieve their goals.

In the US, only 4% of companies in the running industry are owned by a person of color. Now more than ever, these conversations around ownership and increasing access and diversity deserve to see success stories from our communities. Without Last Lap, runners of all types would have little to no access for the gear they need without traveling across the country. In what should be an accessible sport to anyone who wants to try, these community hubs are essential to the wellbeings of our people.

This financial goal is ambitious but also attainable, and necessary to fully reestablish the store. Every dollar makes a huge difference. You, along with the mentors, guides, and community we’ve built over the last three years, can help push us closer to our reopening day. Please share and spread the word far and wide to help Last Lap Cornerstore its new home to continue serving the Southside.

To learn more about us and Last Lap directly, check out this short documentary that was just released with Brooks Running. Our film is part of a series highlighting three running shops owned by people of color and the importance of these spaces for anyone who walks through the doors.

Brooks Running More Thank a Store Ep. 3