A Native American, Billy Mills was able to leave the reservation because of his athletic scholarship to the University of Kansas. While at Kansas, Mills suffered feelings of alienation and low self-esteem and felt alone in a white world. Mills nearly lost all sense of purpose as he was shattered by self doubt and feelings of rejection because of his race.  Mills's life changed when he accepted a commission as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps

With his competitive spirit was restored, he ran and trained harder than ever. His basic training and excellent track and field program in the Marines helped Mills qualify for the 1964 Olympic Games.

There, Mills did something no American had ever done � won a Gold Medal in the 10,000 Meter Run. Mills's win is considered one of the greatest upsets in Olympic history, and some have noted his performance at Tokyo as the greatest achievement in modern American athletics.

Mills is now a national spokesperson for Christian Relief Services, where he has helped raise over 300 million dollars over the past 11 years. Running Strong for American Indian Youth is one part of the organization that helps the Nation's aspiring Native American Youth programs.

Mills's presentations include topics such as: "The Pursuit Of Excellence," "The High of Self Competition," "Global Unity Through Global Diversity," "Go For the Gold," "Self Empowerment for Today's Race," "Winning Spirit" and "Battle of Sovereignty on the Home Front."