Fo Guang Shan North Carolina Hosts VEGRUN Charity Run: Diverse Activities Protect the Green Environment
- FGS NC
- Jun 7, 2025
- 4 min read
[Reported by Yu Chuan and Suzhu Zheng, North Carolina, USA]
The Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) North Carolina Chapter held the "2025 VEGRUN Global Charity Run" on June 7, 2025, at William B. Umstead State Park in Raleigh, North Carolina, USA. The event attracted nearly 170 enthusiastic participants, including 31 children.
The event commenced with an opening address by Venerable Miao Jou, the monastic advisor of BLIA North Carolina. Venerable Miao Jou explained the origins of the VEGRUN Global Run, emphasizing that promoting a plant-based diet can alleviate the food shortage crisis and ensure the Earth can sustainably support a larger population. She also analyzed the negative impact of the livestock industry cycle on carbon emissions, encouraging everyone to practice a vegetarian lifestyle. Finally, Venerable Miao Jou expressed the hope that the deeper significance of this event lies in reviving compassion between people.
BLIA North Carolina Chapter President May Shiue thanked everyone for dedicating their Saturday morning to participate in the charity run, praising all attendees as deserving applause. She specifically acknowledged the key contributors behind the smooth organization: the BLIA North Carolina Subchapter 1 meticulously planned the routes, with Subchapter President Gee Chia leading volunteers on multiple site inspections. President Shiue humorously noted the accuracy was "more reliable than satellite navigation." BLIA North Carolina Subchapter 2 was responsible for the hearty vegetarian lunch served on the day, having started purchasing and preparing ingredients days in advance.
Two routes were designed for the run: The first followed Sal's Branch Trail, covering approximately 5 kilometers. Participants could enjoy views of the lake, pass through forest creeks and bridges, and return to the starting point. The second route was more leisurely, involving a walk from the start to the lakeside and back, followed by a loop around a small circle, suitable for participants of different fitness levels.
The event incorporated diverse and fun elements: A Scavenger Hunt game engaged families in searching for items like fallen trees, lake views, signs, and bridges during the run. Many families brought their pet "fur babies" to join the fun. Promotion of the "Veggie Plan A" encouraged vegetarianism, sharing data on its benefits for energy saving and carbon reduction. Games like the "Three Acts of Goodness Toss Game" (throwing cans) and hula hooping added to the joyful atmosphere.
After the run, the association thoughtfully prepared a diverse array of delicious vegetarian food for participants to enjoy, including grilled skewers, fried noodles, Vietnamese sandwiches, sweet potatoes, corn, and watermelon, providing energy after exercise.
Venerable Miao Jou presented an award during the event to 11-year-old Jerry Li (a student of the Fo Guang Shan Temple's Three Acts of Goodness Children's Class) for participating in the run for three consecutive years. A lively prize draw followed, distributing various gifts and vouchers for the temple's bookstore, filling the venue with joy.
First-time participant Zhang Yin found the event highly meaningful, believing it promotes physical and mental well-being, encourages vegetarianism, and its charitable concept is worth promoting throughout society to benefit future generations and all humanity.
Jingky Gilbert shared that volunteering as a photographer for the VegRun event was a deeply meaningful experience. He found it inspiring to witness so many people coming together to promote a healthier lifestyle and support the fight against climate change—through something as simple yet powerful as choosing a vegetarian meal. Being able to contribute by capturing the spirit and energy of the event not only allowed him to put his photography skills to good use, but also gave him a deeper appreciation for how visual storytelling can amplify awareness and inspire action for important causes.
New member Mira Lin shared her joy in bringing her parents and daughter. She expressed that through Venerable Miao Jou's explanation, she deeply understood that the core meaning of "Veg-revival" (復蔬/Fù shū) in the run is about cherishing resources. She thanked Fo Guang Shan for organizing the event, which brought a long-missed sense of peace and joy and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers who arrived early to set up tents and prepare the abundant vegetarian meal.
This VEGRUN Charity Run was designed so that for every 4 kilometers completed by participants, the BLIA North Carolina Chapter would sponsor USD$1 to a local environmental non-profit organization. The event also combined the 1,567 kilometers accumulated through the VEGRUN online app, collectively contributing love to protect the green environment.
