Sanctuary Runners marked another milestone last week with the launch of their new 5-year strategic plan, “Making Strides for Solidarity”.
The event, held in Europe House in Dublin, brought together group leads, members of the Sanctuary Runners community, as well as partners and sponsors who have supported Sanctuary Runners’ work throughout the years. The evening was hosted by broadcaster Ray D’Arcy, who filled the room with energy, warmth and a deep appreciation for the power of community. His presence set the tone for a celebration not just of strategy, but of people.
Sanctuary Runners CEO Anna opened the night, reflecting on the journey so far – from a single group in Cork to a national movement that has engaged tens of thousands of people in running, jogging and walking in solidarity with refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. She spoke of the courage and commitment of group leads, the generosity of volunteers and partners, and above all, the participants whose stories give the movement its heartbeat.
A key highlight of the evening was the contribution of researchers from the University of Galway, who have been examining the impact of Sanctuary Runners through in-depth research. Postdoctoral researcher David Healy presented preliminary findings from his qualitative study, which includes interviews with Sanctuary Runners participants.
The early insights are powerful. Participants spoke about reduced isolation, improved mental well-being, a renewed sense of belonging and the simple but transformative act of being welcomed into a community. The research reinforces what Sanctuary Runners has long believed – that solidarity-through-sport is not just symbolic, it is deeply impactful.
The lived experience behind those findings came to life during a panel discussion featuring Sanctuary Runners members Monica, Ciara and Noel, who shared what the movement has meant in their own lives – friendships formed, confidence rebuilt and barriers broken down. Their voices were a reminder that while strategies and structures matter, people remain at the core of everything Sanctuary Runners does.
The evening concluded with Graham Clifford, Head of International Development and founder of Sanctuary Runners, outlining the organisation’s ambitious plans for the next five years. Building on the success of the Irish model and recent expansion into Britain, the new strategy sets out a roadmap for deepening impact at home while scaling the model internationally.
Through strengthening existing groups, supporting new communities across Ireland and developing partnerships, Sanctuary Runners strives to take root in cities around the world with a clear vision: to build a global wave of solidarity, friendship and respect through sport.