World Runners is an international NGO established in the United States in 1978. Eight Japanese people who took part in the Moscow Peace Marathon, held in the Soviet Union (now Russia), became the core, and in August 1989 began activities in Japan as World Runners Japan (WRJ). It obtained legal status as an NPO corporation on December 21, 2010, and became a certified NPO on September 29, 2023.
Its vision is to end hunger on Earth. The organization sets as its aim ending chronic hunger rather than sudden famine, and cites bringing the infant mortality rate (IMR) down to 50 or below as a yardstick. It supports local projects in Africa (Kenya and Tanzania), and introduces a scholarship project that brings educational opportunities to girls in Tanzania, a school construction project, and a school-meal project for children in a Nairobi slum.
Running events are where it gathers funds and interest. A 29th charity run around the Imperial Palace is planned for December 20, 2026, and it also holds a monthly regular run on the second Sunday (the run itself is free), "Tekeran," a gentle weekday-evening run or walk around the Imperial Palace, relay races, and the AFRICA Partnership Run. You can also support it through donations, membership or volunteering.
Key points
- Building a culture of contribution that anyone can join easily by "running"
- Supporting scholarship, school construction and school-meal projects in Kenya and Tanzania
- Continuously holding approachable events such as monthly regular runs and "Tekeran"
Why this organization deserves attention
It links the issues of far-off Africa with familiar actions such as jogging and walking. Events that even first-timers can join, as well as people who love running, are held on an ongoing basis.
Supported activities are introduced project by project, so you can see concrete content such as education and school meals. As a certified NPO, donations are eligible for tax benefits, which is also reassuring information for those who want to support it over the long term.
Editor's comment
I found the idea that "running can become strength for someone" truly lovely. Rather than competing in speed or distance, it conveys an atmosphere in which you can contribute while enjoying a relaxed pace.
The regular run around the Imperial Palace is introduced as open to runners only, too. Why not check the event information on the official website for your next weekend?