Free to run foundation
“We strive to create a world where slavery ceases to exist, with freedom and basic human rights for all people.”
January 50 Mile Challenge
Programs
Start of the 2019 World Race for Hope Troy 5k
World Race for Hope
The World Race for Hope 5k was Free To Run Foundation’s signature event. With the opportunity to take over an existing New Year’s Day 5k in Troy, Ohio, the World Race for Hope debuted in 2012 in Troy, with new inaugural races held in New York City and Columbus, Ohio in the first part of 2012. These races helped to raise awareness of human trafficking, while also raising funds for our programs and charity partners.
In 2024, Free To Run Foundation transferred the race to another local nonprofit, Waste-Free Dayton. WFD will continue the annual tradition in Troy, with a new focus of sustainability.
Register for the 2025 New Year’s Day 5k in Troy, or the Virtual Race taking place during the entire month of January, at https://runsignup.com/worldraceforhopetroy.
Photo Credit: Daughters Rising, one of the organizations supported by the Ella Bogan Memorial Fund
Ella Bogan memorial Fund
The Ella Bogan Memorial Fund is a perpetual, restricted fund created in 2018 following the passing of the mother of the founder, Brett Bogan. The fund supports projects and initiatives around the world that empower women and girls and help children.
Teens Stand Against Trafficking
Teens Stand Against Trafficking (TSAT) is our program for youth in grades 7-12. The group started in 2019 with the addition of our first Teen Ambassador, Ellie Fogarty, representing Troy, Ohio. In March 2020, we added our second ambassador, Samantha Feinberg, who represents the north Chicago suburbs. We are looking to expand into other communities and add more ambassadors.
Team G(race)
Team G(race) (pronounced ‘grace’) is Free To Run’s charity running team based in Troy, Ohio. The team started in 2011 as a ministry of Troy First United Methodist Church with a goal of helping people in the church and community get into running while raising money for charitable causes in the process. Team G moved under Free To Run after we received our non-profit status in 2014. The team participates in the Ohio River Road Runners Club Team Series, as well as the Miami County Park District Trail Run Challenge. To learn more about Team G(race), including the charities we support and upcoming fundraising events, visit their website at http://teamgracetroy.wordpress.com.
Balance Boxes
Balance Boxes provides students in low-income communities with educational and fun activities. Each box is created with a designated theme (dinosaurs, princesses, science, etc.). When a parent/guardian partners with our program, Balance Boxes will send their child a special kit. The child and their parent/guardian will be asked to complete a quick survey explaining the interests of the child. This is done to ensure the boxes can be made to the Childs liking. Boxes can include anything from a book, educational game to school supplies. Along with the educational factors, each child will receive a toy, art project or game. Each kit is also equipped with a healthy food and yummy snack to keep the child engaged in the activity. Balance Boxes find the perfect balance between enjoyable and educational and will put a smile on a Childs face! Learn More…
The Team G(race) charity running team celebrated its 11th birthday as a running team. Obviously the last couple of years haven’t gone as planned, for us, and for every other person, business, or nonprofit, but we’re excited and hopeful about what lies ahead. On Flying Pig Weekend, Friday, April 29th through Sunday, May 1st, Team G will once again be represented at the Pig in Cincinnati, in the various events, from the 5k to the full Marathon.