€5k for 5k! Kilkenny youth group gets funding to organise fun run for local kids

A Kilkenny youth group has been given a €5,000 grant aimed at empowering young people, culminating with a 5k fun-run.

Ossory Youth, a youth group located in Kilkenny city, was awarded the funding by VHI to deliver a ‘Run for Fun’ for over 100 young people from under-resourced communities locally with the aim of getting them to complete a 5k run in eight weeks.

The ‘Run for Fun’ programme was created by Vhi, in partnership with Irish Youth Foundation, to empower and build the self-esteem of young people through a dedicated fitness and nutrition programme.

Throughout the course of the eight-week programme,  participants will train with fitness instructors, build up their fitness level while also learning about healthy eating.

VHI Director of Marketing & Business Development Declan Moran said: “Getting involved in sport can be difficult for many young people who may have no previous experience or face social barriers that deter them from participating. That is where ‘Run for Fun’ comes in.

“Through the programme, young people living in underserved communities can see first-hand the benefits that running has on their health and wellbeing and learn about the importance of staying healthy.”