GOA MARATHON – RUN FOR HOME AND HOPE

The Goa Marathon, a pinnacle event on Goa’s social calendar, is set to make a grand return on the 18th of February, commencing from the iconic Miramar Circle. Conceived by Mr Matthew Kurian, the visionary founder of the EL Shaddai Charitable Trust, this marathon aims to not only showcase the spirit of athleticism but also to raise awareness about the challenges faced by street children in Goa.

Initiated in the year 2012, the Goa Marathon carries the noble tagline “Run For Home and Hope,” encapsulating its core mission: to provide shelter and optimism to underprivileged street children supported by the El Shaddai Charitable Trust. This esteemed organization shoulders the responsibility of ensuring the education and accommodation of these children, entirely free of cost.

In a momentous collaboration, Incredible Goa proudly stands as the Lifestyle Magazine partner for the Goa Marathon. In this exclusive article, we delve into the remarkable endeavours of the El Shaddai Charitable Trust, shedding light on the commendable work they do for the welfare of the community. Join us in celebrating the union of fitness and philanthropy as we explore the impact of the Goa Marathon in transforming the lives of those in need.

Marathons, initially designed to promote fitness awareness, have evolved into powerful platforms for multifaceted promotion, with thousands of enthusiastic participants. Notably, they have become engines for endorsing diverse activities, particularly those aligned with social causes. El Shaddai, an organization committed to providing shelter, sustenance, and education to numerous street children, invests substantial resources in this benevolent endeavour.

The Goa Marathon, beyond its role in fitness awareness, has taken on a significant purpose: to shed light on and garner financial support for El Shaddai’s commendable efforts. This initiative involves not only creating awareness but also mobilizing funds through donations. The funds generated are crucial for sustaining El Shaddai’s impactful mission of uplifting and providing for street children, making the Goa Marathon a catalyst for positive change.

Nestled in the vibrant embrace of our sun-kissed state, Goa, adorned with its pristine beaches and lush forests, has become a haven for countless travellers, tourists, and culture enthusiasts who have chosen to call it home. While the allure of this tropical paradise is undeniable, it is essential to acknowledge the existence of the underprivileged and homeless within our nation, relying on the kindness and generosity of our society.

The Goa Marathon, an event that caters to runners and walkers of all proficiency levels, has become a testament to the inclusive spirit of this coastal haven. From seasoned athletes to first-time participants, the marathon’s diverse participant base is a reflection of Goa’s unity in promoting a healthy lifestyle. As the name suggests, the course offers not just a challenging run but also unrivalled views of the Mandovi River, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience for all involved.

Having attracted over sixty-three thousand participants over the past decade, the Goa Marathon has solidified its place as a cornerstone in Goa’s running calendar. Beyond the pursuit of personal fitness goals, the event serves a higher purpose by championing a noble cause. By rallying support and funds, the marathon contributes to the El Shaddai Charitable Trust, a commendable charity dedicated to providing homes, hope, and opportunities for street children and vulnerable youth. In essence, the Goa Marathon not only celebrates the spirit of athleticism but also embodies the compassionate ethos that defines the heart and soul of Goa.

In the upcoming edition scheduled for February 18th, 2024, our goal for the Goa Marathon is to attract an impressive turnout of over 6,000 participants and event attendees. Anticipated to be a lively and impactful occasion, we envision providing sponsors with unparalleled exposure and a meaningful association with a cause that truly matters.

El Shaddai Child Rescue stands as a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of hundreds of children through various initiatives such as residential homes, daycares, shelters, educational programs, and vocational training. Their commitment to empowering vulnerable youth resonates deeply with the mission of the Goa Marathon. By becoming a partner in this event, you have the unique opportunity to contribute directly to the life-changing work undertaken by El Shaddai Child Rescue.

Beyond being a thrilling marathon, this event represents a distinctive chance for your corporation to align its goals with social impact. Sponsoring the Goa Marathon not only enables you to support underprivileged children through the funds raised but also allows you to foster a positive impact on your employees. Encouraging them to participate in a team-building activity driven by a noble cause can enhance the sense of purpose and camaraderie within your organization. Join us in making a lasting difference and leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those in need.

Your sponsorship can truly make a meaningful impact in several ways:

• Support Crucial Educational and Developmental Programs:
• Your sponsorship will directly fund essential educational and developmental programs for underprivileged children in Goa, providing them with opportunities for a brighter future.
• Boost Employee Morale and Team Spirit:
• Engage your employees in a fulfilling Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activity, fostering a sense of pride and camaraderie among your team members.
• Enhance Brand Image as a Socially Responsible Organization:
• Demonstrate your commitment to social responsibility and community welfare, thereby enhancing your brand image as a socially responsible organization with a genuine concern for making a positive impact.
• Gain Valuable Exposure Across Various Media Channels:
• Enjoy extensive pre-event, event day, and post-event publicity across diverse media channels, ensuring your brand gains valuable exposure and recognition.
• Our sponsorship packages offer bespoke benefits, including:
• Prominent logo placement on event materials, banners, arcs, stage backdrops, and the official website.
• Exclusive team participation benefits such as dedicated booths, volunteer support, and recognition.
• Media mentions and social media promotions, shine a spotlight on your significant contribution.

Beyond sponsorship, we encourage your employees to actively participate in the event:

• Join the Marathon: Individual and team registrations are now open, with various difficulty levels to accommodate participants of all fitness levels.
• Volunteer: Extend a helping hand towards the success of the event and directly connect with the impactful cause.

By supporting the Goa Marathon, your organization not only aligns with a noble cause but also reaps the benefits of positive exposure and employee engagement. Join us in making a difference and creating a lasting impact on the lives of those in need.

Embark on a transformative journey by becoming a vital contributor to the Goa Marathon, where your participation will play a pivotal role in shaping brighter futures for numerous underprivileged children. At the core of our ethos is the belief in fostering robust partnerships to create a lasting impact, and we extend a warm invitation for you to join us on this significant journey.

In an endeavour to share our mission and vision for the Goa Marathon 2024, we invite you to connect with us for an exclusive, invite-only orientation session. During this session, you will have the opportunity to receive an inspirational message from our Founder and Philanthropist, Matthew Kurian, along with insights from our dedicated team.

To delve deeper into our mission and explore how your involvement can make a difference, contact us to secure an invitation to this enlightening session. Gear up to kick-start your New Year on the right foot, embracing an unparalleled experience at the Goa Marathon 2024. Together, let’s create a positive impact and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.