Supporting Youth Mental Wellness, One Stride at a Time
Our Approach
-
Movement
An inclusive space where running, play, and fun come together. Along the way, young people discover a love of movement that lasts a lifetime — and many grow into mentors, athletes, and leaders, on the track, on the court, and in life.
-
Trauma-Informed Curriculum
Our evidence-based movement and SEL curriculum is grounded in CASEL and positive youth development, with a dedicated curriculum for girls. Coaches and youth mentors are trained in trauma-informed mental health practice.
-
Mental Wellness
In a healing, safe space, young people build emotional regulation, confidence, and connection — skills that shape their paths in school, in life, and beyond. Our work is youth-led: young people help design and lead sessions in NYC and Kefalonia, Greece.
Our Programming
-
![MSAP students on track]()
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.
-
![Students with Youth Development Mentor, Mal]()
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.
-
![Students outside in our Prospect Park Program]()
Weekend Program in Prospect Park
Our citywide weekend sessions bring youth together through running and play, —using our signature curriculum to strengthen mental health, mentorship, and joy in nature.
-
![BELA students with medals]()
Girls' Program
A culturally responsive program centering the wellness of girls — focusing on identity, mental health, and leadership.
-
![Two students playing game at school]()
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.
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 wasn’t 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 born—a 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, Panagiotis—now 22—is a youth advocate and member of Run4Fun’s Associate Board, helping lead the next generation forward.
One child’s voice sparked a movement that’s transforming thousands of lives.
Join us in moving youth mental health forward—one stride at a time.
INNOVATIVE PATHWAYS
Enriching Youth Development through Arts, Nature, and Culture
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.
Run4Fun Goes To The Races
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 Access
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.
Empowering lives one stride at a time
〰️
Empowering lives one stride at a time 〰️
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 event—and make a lasting impact.