Meet The Team

Get to know your team and their furry friends behind the scenes year after year!

  • Race Directors

    Josh and Michelle’s passion for dogs led them to meet one another in 2014 at Brook Run Dog Park in Atlanta. Fast forward several years later, Josh and Michelle’s combined family of three dogs (Benson, Stabler, and Ava) were drawn to Canton as participants for the first annual Street Dog Dash 5K.

    Loving the area, they relocated to Canton and as legacy participants of the 5k, Josh and Michelle eventually had an opportunity to step into the roles of race directors beginning in the fall of 2021.

    Josh and Michelle have helped grow the 5K through strengthening relationships with rescue partners and community connections. Late Summer of 2024 allowed for a hands-on experience in a foster to adopt program where they fostered six puppies one of which became a “foster fail”, expanding their family to four dogs (welcome, Indy!).

    Through their love for dogs, desire to support Canton and nearby communities Josh and Michelle continue to lead the fundraising efforts to help dogs in need!

  • Directors of Social Media

    Katie and Dakota Monarque are avid dog lovers, sharing their lives with their sweet rescue pup, Luke, who they found on the side of the road and lovingly brought into their family. Together, they channel their creativity and passion into their careers and community.

    Dakota is the owner and operator of Monarque Films LLC, where he captures stories and creates compelling content. Katie is the proud owner of The Nix Generation Inc., a women’s boutique known for its unique style and charm.

    When they’re not playing or having fun with Luke, Katie and Dakota enjoy dining out, watching movies, and finding meaningful ways to give back to Cherokee County, the community they are proud to call home. Their love for creativity, animals, and their local community is the heart of everything they do.

  • Event Director

    Leanne White is a passionate advocate for rescue animals and proud dog mom to Clover and Wally, her two golden retrievers. As an avid runner, Leanne discovered the Street Dog Dash 5K and quickly fell in love with its mission. Wally’s rescue journey from the meat trade in China in 2021 further fueled her dedication and perfectly blends her three favorite things: dogs, running, and rescue. Beyond running, Leanne is thrilled to contribute as a new director as part of the event’s planning team, helping to create a meaningful impact for animals in need while celebrating the joy of running/walking/dancing across the finish line with your furry best friend.