Adam G. White is the president and owner of Running Central, Inc., which he purchased in 2007. He is responsible for the day-to-day operations of two retail stores, manages a staff of 20 employees, meets with vendors to review merchandise, manages inventory, determines appropriate marketing strategies for both stores, and is responsible for the overall success of the business.

Upon taking over the business, White made it his mission to provide everyone—runners, walkers, joggers, and even doctors and nurses—with proper footwear and apparel. When the economy took a downturn, White found a way to diversify his business while expanding his customer base. As other locally-owned stores were closing doors, Running Central thrived, opening its second location in April 2009.

White has a passion for youth in the community and has consistently served as a coach for cross country and track and field teams in central Illinois. This past summer, he partnered as a volunteer and business owner with C.H.O.I.C.E.S. Youth Outreach to help them instill the principles and discipline related to running and exercise into children’s daily lives, and donated more than 200 pairs of shoes to the young participants. Out of this effort, the Peoria Area Track and Field Club and the Main Street Mile were both created. White founded and led a free Youth Track and Field Development Camp for 100 area youth and hosted five track and field all-comer meets. After successfully lobbying Nike to host its Virtual Human Race in Peoria last year, he was able to get the company to host its global event at Running Central once again in 2009.

Working with the Peoria Fire Department, White led the initiative to raise funds for a new wheelchair for a local woman with Down’s syndrome who enjoys “running” races with her father. Now he is working with an organization to have a custom-made wheelchair outfitted for her.

White consistently looks for ways to enhance life in central Illinois. Whether it is through his business or volunteer endeavors, making the lives of individuals better is always his top priority. iBi