Empowering lives one stride at a time
At Run4Fun, we support the lifelong mental health and well-being of young people through running, play, and a sense of community.
Our evidence-based, trauma-informed programs create safe, joyful spaces where youth can thriveโon and off the track.
What We Do
-
![]()
After-School Programming
Our trauma-informed after-school sessions use running, play, and SEL to help youth build confidence, manage emotions, and develop strong peer relationships.
-
![]()
During-School Recess & PE Programming
We collaborate with schools to enrich recess and PE through movement-based SEL, creating joyful, inclusive spaces where all students can build confidence, strengthen relationships, develop self-regulation, and grow essential life skills.
-
![]()
Train-the-Trainer Program
We equip educators, coaches, and youth leaders with trauma-informed tools to deliver our evidence basad curriculum in diverse school and community settings.
-
![]()
Girls' Program
A culturally responsive program centering the wellness of girls โ focusing on identity, mental health, and leadership.
-
![]()
Weekend Program in Prospect Park
Our citywide weekend sessions bring youth together through running and play, โusing our signature curriculum to strengthen mental health, mentorship, and joy in nature.
Our Story: A Mother, A Son, and the Power of One Stride
Run4Fun began with a simple yet powerful moment between a mother and her son.
Nicoletta Nerangis, a licensed masters social worker and mental health expert, knew the transformative power of movement. But it wasnโt until her son, Panagiotis, shared his anxiety around competitive sports that a new idea was born.
One day, during a run, she encouraged him to join a running group.
He replied:
"No, Mama. But if you lead it, then I will join."
From that moment, Run4Fun was bornโa safe and inclusive space where youth could find confidence, healing, and joy through running and play.
What started as a grassroots idea has grown into a trauma-informed, evidence-based program serving over 1,500 youth each year. Today, Panagiotisโnow 22โis a youth advocate and member of Run4Funโs Associate Board, helping lead the next generation forward.
๐ก One childโs voice sparked a movement thatโs transforming thousands of lives.
Join us in moving youth mental health forwardโone stride at a time.
Innovative Pathways: Enriching Youth Development through Arts, Nature, and Cultureโ
We enrich the lives of young people through our educational enrichment destination runs. Our participants learn through the arts, nature, and visits to cultural establishments throughout the city, such as the Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, the Metropolitan Museum, and the Met Opera. By exploring diverse forms of expression and creativity, we provide opportunities for youth to discover their passions and talents. โ
Run4Fun Goes To The Racesโ
We believe running enhances mental and socio-emotional well-being, builds resilience, and develops life skills like perseverance and goal-setting. Our nurturing coaches ensure every runner feels valued. We cheer for each other, celebrate finish lines together, and have a lot of fun. With every race, we pave paths to increased self-esteem, youth development, and a love of running, creating lasting bonds and cherished memories one stride at a time
Pathways for the Future: Empowering Youth Through College & Career Accessโ
Our College & Career Access initiatives provide mentorship, internships, and workshops, guiding youth toward higher education and meaningful careers.
We support participants in navigating pathways to success beyond running.โ โ
Empowering lives one stride at a time
ใฐ๏ธ
Empowering lives one stride at a time ใฐ๏ธ
Help shape the next generation through movement, connection, and joy. Use the form to the right to join us, volunteer, or sign up for our next eventโand make a lasting impact.