504K!

 If you've ever checked out my ZeeMee page or read my previous posts, you know I am active in an amazing organization here in New Orleans called Youth Run NOLA. Youth Run NOLA empowers young people in the community to get motivated and active by training for and participating in local running races around town. It's an awesome experience for the kids because they are able to get motivation and encouragement to train for a big race, and along the way, learn commitment and perseverance which they apply to their life inside and outside the classroom. It also keeps the kids in great shape!

As you likely know by now, Tulane is the #1 school in America for students involved in public service. It's no surprise then that Youth Run NOLA is headed up by a Tulane alumnae (and my good friend) Denali Lander. Denali and Youth Run NOLA were recently featured in a great article in the New Wave (the daily Tulane newsletter). You can read it here!

In the article, Denali states "Running relies on support and is accessible and affordable for everyone. I grew up believing that sports have the power to build communities. The goal here is to create a community of healthy young leaders through running." I'm telling you guys, for all parties involved, Youth Run NOLA has got to be one of the most rewarding service organizations in the city.

So finally, here is my shameless plug. This Saturday, Youth Run NOLA's big race of the year, 504K, is happening. I spent most of the winter on a planning committee that organizes the 504K, so I can attest that it will be an incredible race filled with youth runners, amazing people from the community, and plenty of Tulane students, staff, and alumni. You'll even see Tulane students from the Running Conversation TIDEs class there! You can register for Saturday's race here. The race also doubles as an important fundraiser for Youth Run NOLA, so you can support healthy lifestyles and a great organization! Even better, this year's race route is amazing, taking runners through the beautiful Crescent Park (featured on my previous "best outdoor spots" blog). And the post-race entertainment is none other than NOLA icon Big Freedia. (side note, last year's post race entertainment was Tank and the Bangas who last week were named the (unanimous) winners in NPR's Tiny Desk contest!)

So, lace up, make an impact, and I'll see you on the race course this Saturday!