Running Towards Hope: Another Day in Beirut with Penny Appeal 🧡

Marathon of Unity: The Right to Run

Over my last couple of days in Beirut, I found myself immersed in an atmosphere brimming with hope and resilience. I was honoured to attend the launch of the Beirut Marathon Association series, "Right 2 Run." The core of "Right 2 Run" is to foster a running culture, particularly in underprivileged regions, reinforcing the belief that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the right to run.

With local media and public relations teams buzzing around us, it was clear that this event meant so much more to the people of Lebanon. It's not just a run; it's a beacon of hope, an assertion of freedom, and a testament to the resilient spirit of the Lebanese people.

I found the sight of a visible Muslim woman, wearing hijab, leading the warm-up crowd of runners both inspiring and symbolic. Against societal norms and prejudices, she had stayed committed to her passion for running. Her story echoed powerfully with the experiences of many in the crowd, how she broke down barriers and pursued her aspirations. A marathon can be daunting, pushing us to our limits, but it also reminds us of what we're capable of achieving when we persevere.

"Children's Voices Resonate: The Power of Community"

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the children's race. The first in a series of five, this race under the "Right 2 Run" banner, aims to provide children - refugees, low-income families, and children in general - an opportunity to participate and feel the sense of belonging that comes from community-wide events.

We at Penny Appeal, as chosen charity partners of the Beirut Marathon Association, had the privilege of providing all participating children with T-shirts, caps, and winners' medals. Seeing their faces light up with joy and pride, it was evident that these races are much more than just an event; they are experiences that empower, inspire and affirm every child's right to dream, to aspire, and yes, to run.

 "Join the Race: Building Futures and Remembering Lives Lost"

Three years after the 2020 blast that shattered Beirut, we continue to build futures and open opportunities for the generations to come. Through initiatives like the Beirut Marathon, we're working to infuse hope into a city that has faced insurmountable challenges.

And you can be a part of this transformation too. Your support is not just a donation; it's a contribution to the rebuilding of a community, the empowerment of an individual, and the nurturing of hope in hearts that have endured so much. You too can make a small change, leading to a BIG difference.

Join me on this incredible journey and see your donations in action. Follow our social media for updates, and stay tuned for how you can join me on the ground. Help us continue to transform lives by supporting our life-changing projects in Lebanon today: pennyappeal.org/appeal/lebanon-emergency

Ridwana, CEO