What We Do
Holistic Childhood Development
We support communities in nurturing the wellbeing and holistic development of youth
We envision communities that nurture, care for, and value youth throughout “middle childhood” – emerging as future leaders, engaged in activities that nurture their development, understanding of their agency, value and worth, and living into their fullest potential. We move towards this vision:
Through Care & Belonging
Youth experience safe mentoring relationships, care, belonging, and affirmation of their dignity, potential, and worth
Through Knowledge & Instruction
Youth gain knowledge and skills to support their thriving.
Through Physical Activity
Youth experience healing and holistic wellness through physical activity and growth.
Through Care & Belonging
Youth experience safe mentoring relationships, care, belonging, and affirmation of their dignity, potential, and worth
Through Knowledge & Instruction
Through Physical Activity
The Healing Power of Movement and Support
Running has the power to heal, strengthen, and transform lives. Our science backed approach uses movement to encourage healthy brain development, help young minds process difficult emotions, cultivate confidence and inner leadership, build resilience for life’s challenges, and weave supportive community connections.
We are rooted in three key principles* that drive positive outcomes for children:
Strengthening Core Life Skills
Through running, children develop self-regulation, goal-setting, and leadership skills that serve them beyond the run.
Building Responsive Relationships
Supportive mentors and peer connections help children feel seen, valued, and empowered.
Reducing Sources of Stress
Physical activity and positive social environments help children process emotions, build resilience, and navigate life’s challenges.
Harvard University Center on the Developing Child. (2023). Science X Design: Three Principles to Improve Outcomes for Children [Video]. Retrieved from https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/videos/science-x-design-three-principles-to-improve-outcomes-for-children/
Our Impact
In addition to supporting communities to nurture the wellbeing and holistic development of their young future leaders to create lasting generational change, we’re making a measurable impact in the communities we serve:
50,500+ children
are finding their potential across 16 African countries
29% reduction
in children’s trauma symptoms through movement based healing
25% increase
in key life skills through mentorship and community support
2,845+ dedicated coaches
trained in their communities to guide youth toward brighter futures
The People Behind Our Mission
Meet the dedicated team nurturing our vision and guiding our growth across communities.
Gladys Mwangi
Program Specialist
Nairobi, Kenya
John Issaya
Program Specialist
In partnership with Red Knot Development
Arusha, Tanzania
Rabecca Msangaambe
Program Specialist
in partnership with World Renew Kenya
Lilongwe, Malawi
Ari deJonge
Executive Director
Grand Rapids, Michigan
