For 15 years, the nonprofit Running for a Better Oakland has helped young people find their footing through running. This month, the organization will mark the milestone with a fundraiser in Berkeley.
Running for a Better Oakland works with Oakland students from kindergarten through 12th grade, providing free coaching, running shoes, race entries and mentorship. Executive Director Jessica de Leon said the program has given young people a “safe, supportive place to stay active,” with running giving students something tangible to train for and work toward over time.
The nonprofit will celebrate its 15th anniversary at its annual “Run Your Own Race” fundraiser Sept. 24 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Berkeley headquarters of GU Energy Labs, a Berkeley-based sports nutrition company.
The evening will feature a panel with Olympic marathoner Magda Boulet and runners Alysia Montaño, Cal Calamia and Zagdaa Baatar. Students from Running for a Better Oakland will also speak about their experiences with the program.
The fundraiser will include a raffle with prizes such as race entries and local experiences, according to the organization.
Running for a Better Oakland meets Saturday mornings at Snow Park near Lake Merritt, where students train with coaches and volunteers before taking part in local races. During its fall 2025 and spring 2026 seasons, the nonprofit says it served 496 students, gave out 148 pairs of running shoes and worked with 244 volunteers across 10 races.
De Leon said some of the money raised this year could help expand transportation for students who live farther from practice. One member of the organization currently helps drive students who otherwise may have difficulty getting there, she said, and the nonprofit hopes to make that kind of help available to more families.
More information about Running for a Better Oakland, along with tickets for the Sept. 24 fundraiser, can be found on its website.
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