Running to Repair War’s Destruction—One Runner’s Story
Why I'm racing the country's largest relay to give children a chance to live in a world free of violence.
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On June 4, I’ll be running the final leg of the United Relay of America, ending in Prospect Park, Brooklyn. This incredible event will be the first ever triple-ribbon, coast-to-coast relay challenge in American history.
The Relay—launched April 27 and presented by Alicia Keys’ We Are Here movement—encourages participants to run, walk or bike a leg of the race and raise money for a cause close to their heart. I will be running for War Child—the organization I founded in North America nearly 20 years ago.
War Child works with children and their families in countries that have been torn apart by war. Our work empowers communities to rebuild and to create an environment where childhood can once again thrive. The resilience of the families we work with is a constant source of inspiration. By giving them the opportunity to shape their own future, we ensure that the recovery from conflict is real and sustainable.
As a mother myself, I would run forever if it meant raising enough money to give every child living in war-affected communities the chance to live a life free from poverty and violence. Thanks to our incredible supporters, who have committed to run the Relay for War Child, I don’t have to do it alone. We can do this together.
For those who have yet to sign up, it’s not too late. Go online today, and join us. Anyone who signs up to run will be automatically entered for the chance to meet multiple Grammy winner, Alicia Keys. Flights and a two-night stay at a luxury hotel in New York are included.
I’d love for you to join me in Brooklyn for the final few kilometers of this ground-breaking event. See you at the finish line!
Dr. Samantha Nutt is an award-winning humanitarian, bestselling author and acclaimed public speaker. Dr. Nutt has worked with children and their families at the frontline of many of the world’s major crises – from Iraq to Afghanistan, Somalia to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sierra Leone to Sudan. A leading authority on current affairs, war, international aid and foreign policy, Dr. Nutt is one of the most intrepid and recognized voices in the humanitarian arena. With a career that has spanned more than two decades, her international work has benefited hundreds of thousands of war-affected children globally.