- The solidarity-through-sport initiative expands to towns where Ukrainian people and others have moved in recent times
- Using running, jogging and walking to bring all in the community together in positivity and respect
The group received a warm welcome from the people of Gort when it launched at Coole parkrun on Saturday 7th January.
Paula Nugent, a local of Gort, heard of the initiative through a recent radio interview and knew there was a place for Sanctuary Runners locally.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better reception with so many people signing up to be part of this brilliant initiative. Gort is a wonderfully multicultural town and already we have people from Bulgaria, Turkey and South Africa signed up. Everyone is welcome to join us!”
Focusing on community integration and bringing people together to the benefit of all, the award-winning initiative has expanded to include areas where people from Ukrainian and other nationalities have moved in recent months and years.
Ireland Lead Ailís McSweeney said “We’ve seen over the years how running or walking shoulder-to-shoulder on one team can be such a vital tool for community integration, for welcoming people who might be isolated or worried – and also for building stronger communities. Also, it’s lots of fun and good for everyone’s health.”
Focusing on solidarity over charity the Sanctuary Runners already have groups in 30 locations across Ireland.
Sanctuary Runners is open to everyone in the community from all nationalities, different ages and abilities. If you would like to join Gort Sanctuary Runners drop them a line at gort@sanctuaryrunners.ie.