The Renault Foundation celebrates 10 years of creation with the completion of a career: “Kilometers for a dream”. This sporting event will start from Mercados Madrid, in Envigado, and will reach Sabaneta. Those registered will run in categories: 10k y 5k.
Every 90 enrolled becomes a paid semester for students who want to advance academically and professionally and do not have sufficient resources and possibilities to be part of the university educational system. In this first edition, all registration slots have been filled thanks to the work of the foundation and a large group of allies.
A new career to contribute to well-being
Marcela Pérez, director of the Renault Foundationstates that contributing to the general well-being of people is the essential purpose of this event: “It is a good way to generate income for our cause and to add value to the community. Our purpose is to establish this race within the sports calendar of the year. As a foundation, we are convinced of the importance of supporting this social purpose related to education, inclusion and employability.”
The Renault Foundation operates in Medellín, it was born in 2014and has beneficiaries in Bogotá, Barranquilla, Cali, Envigado and Pereira. Its work focuses on 4 central points: education, diversity, sustainable mobility-environment and road safety.
Road closures
The course of this race will begin at 7 am for the 10k category and at 8 am for the 5k category. The race will reach Sabaneta. Find out here about the road closures that will take place starting this Saturday, November 16:
More information: Kilometers for a Dream
How can community events like “Kilometers for a Dream” influence social change in Colombia?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Marcela Pérez, Director of the Renault Foundation
Time.news Editor: Good morning, Marcela! It’s a pleasure to have you here with us today, especially as we celebrate the Renault Foundation’s impressive milestone—10 years of impactful work in the community. I understand that you’re kicking off this celebration with a unique sporting event called “Kilometers for a Dream.” Can you tell us more about this event and what inspired it?
Marcela Pérez: Good morning! Thank you for having me. We’re really excited about “Kilometers for a Dream.” This event is not just a race; it embodies our commitment to supporting education and social inclusion. For every 90 participants who register, we are able to sponsor a semester of education for students who need financial help to pursue their academic goals. It’s a wonderful way to blend fitness with philanthropy and create a broader impact in the community.
Editor: That’s truly inspiring! Filling all registration slots in your first edition must be a significant accomplishment. Can you share how the community has reacted to this initiative?
Pérez: Absolutely! The response has been overwhelming. Thanks to our dedicated team and our many partners, we were able to fill all available slots. The community really rallied around the cause, and it’s incredible to see so many people uniting for a shared goal—to help students achieve their dreams. This event has generated a buzz, and we’re hopeful it will become a staple on the annual sports calendar here in Medellín.
Editor: It certainly sounds like an event with a noble purpose. As the director of the Renault Foundation, you have a wide-reaching influence. Could you elaborate on the core areas your foundation focuses on besides education?
Pérez: Certainly! We focus on four main pillars: education, diversity, sustainable mobility and the environment, and road safety. Each of these areas is crucial for fostering a healthy society. Education is at the heart of our mission, but we also strive to promote diversity in all forms and to advocate for sustainable practices within our communities. Road safety, especially, is very relevant given the increasing number of vehicles on the road today.
Editor: That’s fantastic to hear! Now, looking at the broader picture, what role do you see organizations like the Renault Foundation playing in addressing social challenges in Colombia?
Pérez: Organizations like ours are essential in creating opportunities and contributing to a more equitable society. We believe that by supporting education and inclusivity, we can empower individuals and communities to improve their socio-economic conditions. It’s about building capacity and providing people with the tools they need to thrive. Events like “Kilometers for a Dream” also serve to raise awareness and inspire others to get involved in social causes.
Editor: You’ve mentioned that the race is scheduled to begin at 7 AM, and I understand there are 5K and 10K categories. What logistical preparations have been made to ensure everything runs smoothly?
Pérez: Great question! We have been working closely with local authorities to manage road closures and ensure the safety of all participants. There will be water stations, medical support, and volunteers along the route to assist runners. We want to create an enjoyable experience for everyone, and we are committed to making this event as inclusive and safe as possible.
Editor: It sounds like a well-prepared and much-needed event. Before we conclude, is there anything else you’d like to add or an invitation you’d like to extend to our readers?
Pérez: Yes, I’d love to invite everyone to join us for this exciting event! Whether you’re running or cheering from the sidelines, your participation helps make a difference in the lives of many students. Every step you take is a step towards someone’s educational journey. Let’s come together to celebrate health and support a great cause!
Editor: Thank you so much for your time, Marcela, and congratulations on the foundation’s 10 years of commitment and on the launch of the “Kilometers for a Dream.” We wish you all the best with the event!
Pérez: Thank you! We appreciate your support and hope to see lots of enthusiastic participants on race day!