How It Works
Growing From Within Communities
We support communities to nurture, care for, and value youth throughout “middle childhood.” Our approach ensures that running clubs are deeply embedded within local communities, fostering long-term impact and sustainable change.
To ensure our communities unique culture and needs are at the heart of the program, we build trusting relationships with our partners and follow a 5 step approach:
1
Community-Led Growth
We provide the framework, while local leaders shape implementation to reflect their unique culture and needs.
2
Empowered Mentorship
Our 27-week curriculum trains community mentors to guide children with care, encouragement, and safety.
3
Holistic Development
Running is the foundation, but the real transformation happens through goal-setting, emotional well-being, and leadership development.
4
Sustained Change
Communities take ownership, ensuring programs continue to grow and support future generations.
5
Expanding Our Reach
Every experience strengthens our mission, allowing us to learn, grow, and bring the program to new communities in need.
Our Thoughtfully Crafted Curriculum
Our carefully designed 27-week journey provides children with tools for growth and healing. The curriculum is printed in English and Kiswahili, and is currently being translated to Kirundi, Kinyarwanda, and French.
Through our curriculum, young runners learn:
Essential Life Skills
Leadership, teamwork, and perseverance that extend beyond running.
Emotional Processing Techniques
Gentle ways to navigate difficult experiences and build resilience.
Confidence and Self-Worth
Lessons that reinforce each child’s value and potential.
Healthy Relationships
Fostering respect, kindness, and a strong sense of community.
Health and Wellness Education
Understanding nutrition, sexual health, hygiene, and overall well-being to support lifelong health.
Watching Growth Unfold
Africa’s growing youth population holds immense promise—but many young people face serious challenges, including poverty, substance abuse, violence, and limited opportunity.
In conjunction with World Relief Rwanda, our running clubs began in 2016 to offer children and communities a transformative path forward. Children who participate in the program develop greater confidence, responsibility, and healthier relationships. We track growth through:
- Shifts in knowledge, attitudes, and daily practices (KAP)
- Healing from trauma and emotional distress
- Stories of transformation shared by children, families, and mentors
Coaches consistently report positive changes that extend into families and communities.They have seen the program help address real challenges like drug use, teen pregnancy, domestic violence, and neglect—by giving children a safe space to grow, connect, and thrive.
