On October 20, 2024, MOHAN Foundation (MF) took part in the 19th edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM) at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi. The marathon, with United Way Delhi (UWD) as the official philanthropy partner, brought together participants from diverse backgrounds for health, fitness, and social causes. Representing MF at the event were Ms. Sanya Santosh, Programme Officer, Delhi NCR; Mr. Sanchit Arora, Project Leader, MF, stationed at AIIMS Rishikesh; and interns Ms. Eram Firdous and Mr. Sameer Khan from Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi.

The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is recognized as one of the world’s premier half marathons, holding the prestigious World Athletics Gold Label. Since 2005, Delhi has embraced the spirit of this marathon, attracting elite athletes and enthusiasts alike. Over the last 18 editions, the event has served as a platform for numerous NGOs to raise significant funds, while making an impact on both the sports community and social causes.

This year’s philanthropy drive at VDHM was powered by the theme “Cause it Matters.” In this edition, 78 NGOs, over 80 individual fundraisers, 12 corporates, and thousands of donors came together to raise funds for various causes.

The marathon included several race categories:

• Half Marathon

• 10K Run

• Great Delhi Run

• Senior Citizens Run

• Champions with Disability Run

• Police Cup Run

Four individual runners supported MOHAN Foundation’s initiative, Anudaan: Making Transplants Affordable, which helps underprivileged patients undergo life-saving organ transplants. These runners not only participated in the marathon but also raised funds for the cause:

1. Jason Moses

A high school student from New Delhi, Jason ran his first half marathon this year at VDHM. Although he has been running for 10 years, this event was particularly meaningful as he aimed to raise funds for Anudaan.

“I want to make this year’s marathon special not just for me but for children in dire need of organ transplants by raising funds for their surgeries.” – Jason Moses

2. Mr. Neetin Verma

Associate Director at Fidelity International and an avid runner from Gurugram, Neetin participated in his sixth VDHM. He made this year’s run extraordinary by supporting the life-saving cause of Anudaan.

“I’ve been running VDHM for several years, and I felt it was a good opportunity to give back to society, which is why I decided to run for this cause.” – Mr. Neetin Verma

3. Mr. Rajesh Kumar Sawani

Associate Vice President – Quality Assurance at PEARL Global Industries Ltd, and a passionate runner from Greater Noida, Rajesh participated in his fifth VDHM this year. He dedicated this year’s race to a noble cause.

“With today's run, I beat my previous time and am pleased to announce that I have qualified for the full marathon in Mumbai next year. Anudaan is special to me, and I am confident that with my efforts and everyone's support, we will make a significant impact.” – Mr. Rajesh Kumar Sawani

4. Mr. Kunwarsen

A trainer and fitness enthusiast with over 15 years of experience, Kunwarsen raised funds for Anudaan through his participation in this year’s VDHM.

On October 15, 2024, Jason Moses was also invited to the Charity Press Meet, where he was recognized as the largest fundraiser under the age of 18. His efforts to raise funds for organ transplants for underprivileged patients were widely appreciated.

“The cost of organ transplants is extremely high, and underprivileged children cannot afford it. Every child deserves the right to live a healthy and happy life. That's why I chose this cause.” – Jason Moses, during the Charity Press Meet

News coverage link: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/join-the-vedanta-delhi-half-marathon-2023-run-for-charity-and-change-lives/articleshow/114260425.cms

https://thecsrjournal.in/corporate-social-responsibility-csr-news-more-than-3-crore-raised-by-80-ngos-at-the-19th-edition-of-the-delhi-half-marathon/