On June 21, the Dublin Front Runners hosted over 1,000 runners taking part in the 2019 Pride Run. It was their 8th year hosting this event, and the event has grown in strength each year.

Their goal for the Pride Run is to help get people active, while also helping to raise much-needed funds for LGBT+ charities. Participants come not only from their Club, including those who have completed the annual Couch to 5K Programme for beginner runners but from all walks of life. From complete novices to experienced runners, the Pride Run is open to all, regardless of age, gender or sexual orientation.

This year their three charity partners were BeLonG To, HIV Ireland and ShoutOut.

Founded in 2003, BeLonG To Youth Services provides invaluable support for thousands of LGBT+ young people, which aims to make them feel equal, safe, and valued in the diversity of their identities and experiences.

HIV Ireland became the new name of the Dublin AIDS Alliance which has been addressing HIV/AIDS in Ireland for 32 years. Their mission is to contribute towards a significant reduction in the incidence and prevalence of HIV in Ireland and towards the realisation of an AIDS-free generation.

ShoutOut is a community of volunteers and activists committed to improving the lives of LGBT+ people across the country through education. The organisation has been delivering workshops in secondary schools that tackle LGBT+ bullying across Ireland since 2012. They have completed more than 400 workshops in LGBT+ awareness and inclusion to 12,000 young people in schools and youth groups in the past year.

Apart from the generous support received from main sponsors, Arthur Cox, Aviva & Barefoot Wines as well as from other sponsors, SalesForce and Verizon, the fantastic turn out of people at this year’s Run helped them to raise an incredible €21,000 for their charity partners.

This means each of their charity partners is now receiving €7,000 to help with their vital work.

Speaking at the cheque presentation, a spokesperson for Dublin Front Runners said:

“We couldn’t be prouder of this result for our charity partners and, on behalf of the Club, we would like to say a HUGE thank you to all of the people that ran with us, our amazing sponsors and all our volunteers.

“We will see you at the Dublin Pride Run 2020!”