A call for Hope.

Maybe you're read about Hope Runs in Runner's World or elsewhere. Maybe you've never heard of them. Either way, I'm here to request that you check them out and learn a little more.

Hope Runs is a non-profit NGO working in Kenya and Tanzania, using athletics, education, and social entrepreneurship to empower AIDS orphans. Claire Williams, one of the founders, emailed me with information on their Hope Runs 777 Challenge.

Here's some information on the Challenge:

In 2010, Hope Runs will be leading a Guinness World Record-breaking endeavor to complete 7 marathons on 7 continents in only 7 weeks. With a team of dedicated runners, we are committed to breaking some fantastic Guinness World Records (yes - there are some left to be broken in the area!). We are also proud to be running a green event through carbon-emissions-offset sponsoring.

The Hope Runs 777 Challenge will help bring the issues facing the 14.5 million AIDS orphans in Africa alone to the forefront of the world’s consciousness. By pushing ourselves to the limit, our team will raise awareness for the issues facing orphaned and vulnerable children (OVCs) all over the world, mobilizing people everywhere to become more involved. With each member of the team covering his or her own costs and committing to raise thousands more toward the cause, this effort will help to make a lasting impact in places that need it most.

The Challenge has lost some of its team members and is looking for new ones. Maybe some of you intrepid runners would be up for the challenge? You can visit their blog here or their web site here. Or, send an email to info@hoperuns.org for more information. Even if you are not interested in running, check out their sites. I spent some time reading about them this evening and have been very impressed by what Claire and her Hope Runs partner Lara are doing. It is really amazing.

Thanks!!