The Greatest of These Is Charity

Considering the Future of Running and Charity Giving

What Now?

Charities may move on, like driftnet fishing fleets, if they think they have depleted our waters. Evidence suggests that already the waters may not be as rich as they were. The American Diabetes Association is pulling its Team Diabetes program, citing the changes in the economic climate and travel industry since September 11, 2001 have made it "difficult to manage the costs associated with the event at a level that is in line with recommended industry standards." Fred’s Team has this year, for the first time, moved away from a policy of participant expenses being fully funded by corporate sponsors, and has spent, like other organizations, approximately 18 cents of each dollar raised for overhead. Team in Training, still very visible in running, has added road and mountain bike, cross country ski, triathlon, duathlon, and Hi-Tec Adventure racing events.

Today, however, charity running is a force, a movement, that cannot be ignored or wished away. The question is how to ensure that the sport and the causes can work together for mutual benefit.