WORCESTER — A free youth running program is coming to Worcester this fall, giving local children a chance to stay active while building confidence and connecting with college student-athlete mentors.
Run Worcester, part of the national nonprofit Run Your City, will offer a six-week program that blends running, play and values-based learning.
The program is completely free and open to children of all abilities and backgrounds, with no previous running experience required.
Sessions will be held once a week on Sundays and will be led by local college student-athletes who will serve as coaches and mentors throughout the program.
Organizers say the goal is about more than running. The program is designed to help young participants build confidence, perseverance and a sense of community while being encouraged by college athletes.
Run Your City began in 2018 as a student-led initiative at the University of Virginia and has since expanded to more than 100 college-based chapters in the United States and internationally.
The organization says its mission is to break down barriers to sports participation and give more children an opportunity to take part in structured athletic programming.
Run Worcester’s sessions will combine racing activities with games and lessons centered around personal growth and mentorship.
Families interested in learning more or signing up can visit RunYourCity.org.
