Portugal
participants
The goals of the activity Run for a Cause: Fighting Hunger were the following:
- Promote Community Engagement Through Fitness
Foster a sense of solidarity among participants by combining physical activity with a shared purpose of giving back to the community. Encourage international students and ESN volunteers to come together and support the meaningful ESN Cause of Culture, by running and exploring Lisbon's historical and cultural landmarks.
- Support Local Charitable Organizations
Collect and donate non-perishable food items to "Banco Alimentar", a solidarity institution that aims to support families and individuals of all nationalities, cultures and backgrounds that are in need. Raise awareness about food insecurity in Lisbon and how small collective actions can make a significant impact.
- Inspire a Culture of Giving
Highlight the importance of integrating acts of kindness into everyday activities, such as running and fitness. Motivate international students to continue supporting charitable efforts after the event.
- Encourage Healthy Lifestyles for a Cause
Promote physical health and well-being through group exercise while aligning the activity with a solidarity cause. Support the ESN cause of Health & Well-Being by showcasing the benefits of running for mental and physical health and community building.
- Celebrate Lisbon’s Community Spirit
We used the running activity as a platform to support the ESN cause of Social Inclusion, by bringing together diverse groups of various nationalities and backrounds.
- Raise Awareness About Local Issues
Educate participants about the challenges faced by underprivileged communities in Lisbon and how food donations can provide relief.
We collaborated with "Banco Alimentar" to share their mission and the impact of their work.
This activity organized by ESN Lisboa seeked to combine fitness, fun, and solidarity, creating a memorable event that makes a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
Every participant, including the ESN Volunteers, brought 1 kg of non-perishable food to donate to "Banco Alimentar", a Non-Governmental Organization and solidarity institution with the aim of helping and support families and individuals in need.
The meeting point was at Cais do Sodré and after collecting the food the running event started.
The race route included historical and cultural landmarks such as Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and Padrão dos Descobrimentos.
This activity enabled all participants to contribute to the honourable cause of helping the community by providing essential food to individuals in need. At the same time everyone enjoyed the physical and mental benefits of running or walking with other international students who share the same passion for fitness and solidarity!
This activity was not just a run, it was a chance to show that small actions, when multiplied, create big change. By coming together, we can help fight hunger while fostering community spirit and spreading positivity.
