Kids Run the Nation Grant Program 2024

The Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) offers the Kids Run the Nation Grant Fund to support youth running programs across the U.S. This grant aims to provide financial assistance to running clubs, schools, and community-based nonprofits that are either implementing new youth running programs or enhancing existing ones. The RRCA's mission, though not explicitly stated as a "foundation mission," aligns with promoting youth running and healthy lifestyles, which is directly addressed by this grant. The program's theory of change appears to be that by funding structured youth running programs, children will be encouraged to be physically active, develop healthy habits, and participate in positive community activities. The target beneficiaries for this grant are children and youth participating in organized running programs. The impact goals are to increase youth participation in running, foster a love for physical activity, and provide access to well-organized and supported running programs in various communities. The grant focuses on supporting the operational and promotional aspects of these programs, rather than individual sponsorships or competitive event fees. The priorities for funding include marketing materials, advertising, program websites, facility usage fees, hydration supplies, snacks, incentives, and educational materials like mileage logs. This demonstrates a focus on the practical needs that enable programs to reach participants, maintain their engagement, and ensure their well-being during activities. The grant specifically avoids funding sports drinks, individual travel or race entry fees, social events for staff, salaries, and competitive track/cross-country teams governed by athletic federations, indicating a clear focus on community-based, non-competitive running for general youth participation. Expected outcomes include an increased number of youth participating in organized running programs, enhanced program quality due to improved resources, and greater community awareness of available youth running opportunities. While specific measurable results are not detailed in terms of quantifiable participant increases or health metrics, the funding of incentives like Toe Tokens, ribbons, and mileage logs suggests an emphasis on tracking individual progress and rewarding participation, which implicitly contributes to retention and engagement within the programs. The strategic priority is to empower local organizations to build and sustain robust youth running initiatives nationwide.