THE YOUNG LEADERS FUND
Running Industry Alliance (RIA) and Personal Best Foundation have teamed up to create a transformative initiative: the Young Leaders Fund.
As RIA’s first project under its Run It Forward Foundation, this fund invites RIA members and partners to contribute and collectively support Personal Best Foundation’s mission to launch the Young Leaders in Running programme. Together, we aim to empower young people from underserved communities by developing their leadership skills, connecting them to volunteering opportunities, and opening pathways to careers in sport and physical activity.
Join us in 'running it forward' for young people.
By contributing a minimum of £250 (which can be made as a corporate donation), you can help kickstart this impactful journey and play a vital role in reaching the initial £20,000 needed to bring the Young Leaders in Running Programme to life.
How many young people will you support?
- £250 – could support 1 young person
- £1000 – could support 4 young people
- £2,500 – could support 10 young people
- £5,000 – could support one full cohort of 20 young people
Total raised to date (09/12/2024): £5,000
Donate nowAbout the Young Leaders in Running Programme
The Young Leaders in Running programme is an 8-week initiative designed to empower young people at risk of social exclusion to become effective leaders through the power of running. Participants will receive support, education, and hands-on opportunities to develop their leadership skills, culminating in a Leadership in Running Fitness qualification. This programme offers a mix of online self-guided learning, tutor-led workshops, face-to-face applied learning, and mentorship, all while building a network of young, qualified run leaders and mentors to inspire and support other young people.
This programme opens the door to a variety of leadership opportunities in the running and sports industry. Participants may progress to roles such as run leaders, coaching, event management coordinators, sector managers at large races, volunteer coordinators, or even take on mentorship roles to support future generations. The skills and qualifications gained will not only pave the way for a rewarding career in sport and physical activity but also offer the chance to become experienced volunteers, making a meaningful impact in their communities.
Donate now to the Young Leaders Fund
How your donation will be spent
The initial £20,000 will fund the 6-month employment of a part-time programme manager along with the first pilot programme supporting a cohort of up to 20 young people.
It costs approximately £250 to support one young person through the 8-week programme (excluding programme management costs) therefore we are asking for this as a minimum commitment from RIA members and partners wishing to #RunItForward and donate to the Young Leaders Fund.
OUTCOMES OF THE YOUNG LEADERS IN RUNNING PROGRAMME
Participants will develop self-efficacy, gaining the confidence to navigate challenges and take on leadership roles in various contexts. and help them realise that everyone can achieve a personal best.
By engaging in task-based learning through real-life application, young leaders will develop practical skills in leadership, decision-making, and adaptability. circumstances.
Participants will establish meaningful connections with mentors and peers, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual encouragement that extends beyond the programme. with our stakeholders and partners for the benefit of children and young people.
Real-time and post-programme reflection will help participants assess their progress, recognize their achievements, and chart a path for future development. boundaries and testing new approaches to address inequalities within athletics.
Graduates will achieve the Leadership in Running Fitness (LiRF) certification, equipping them to lead running sessions and opening doors to careers in sport and physical activity. potential of every young person.