Florence Launches Charity Runner Program for Tokyo Marathon 2027

Florence, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children in Japan, is excited to announce the launch of its Charity Runner Program for the upcoming Tokyo Marathon 2027. From June 24 to July 9, interested participants will have the opportunity to become charity runners, furthering Florence's mission while partaking in this iconic running event.

About the Charity Runner Program

Since 2019, Florence has been a proud participant in the Tokyo Marathon Foundation's CHARITY RUN with HEART initiative. Over the years, the organization has successfully engaged around 1,000 charity runners through various programs including running events, hospitality offerings, and more. The details of the 2027 Charity Runner Program are as follows:

1. Massage Services at the Charity Lounge (Tentative)
Building on the success of the previous marathon, attendees will have access to quick massage services at the Charity Lounge. Participants can unwind post-race, discussing their experiences while easing their tired legs with the help of trained staff.

2. Exclusive Florence Memorabilia
As a token of appreciation, all charity runners will receive unique memorabilia from Florence, celebrating their contributions to the organization’s mission. This serves as a reminder of their vital role in improving the lives of children across Japan.

3. Professional Running Clinic (Location/Date TBD)
In continuation of last year’s success, renowned coach Shigeto Osumi will conduct a running clinic for charity runners. This popular clinic, limited in capacity, is designed to provide training support to ensure participants have a safe and enjoyable marathon experience.

About Coach Shigeto Osumi

Shigeto Osumi is a distinguished running coach and physical instructor, having graduated from Waseda University. He has extensive coaching experience, including roles at the STARTS Athletics Club and as the head coach of SWAC. His qualifications encompass being an Rbody R-conditioning coach and a sleep improvement instructor. Osumi has trained elite athletes, city runners, and even celebrities participating in urban races. He has also facilitated running classes for children, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing the next generation.

Main achievements include:

- 2001: Competed in the Hakone Ekiden, Section 6
- Best Times:

- Half Marathon: 1:04:39
- Full Marathon: 2:43:45 at the 2017 Honolulu Marathon, achieving 1st place in age category
- 100 km: 8:57:11

Please note that program details are subject to change without prior notice. For further information about the charity programs previously conducted by Florence, please refer to the following article: Florence Charity Program Details

Get Involved with Florence

Those interested in participating in the Florence Charity Runner Program for the Tokyo Marathon 2027 can find more details and application procedures on Florence’s dedicated page: Florence Marathon Special Page.

Recognized as a leading NPO in Japan, Florence is committed to transforming the lives of children and tackling societal issues through its innovative approaches, which include business development, policy advocacy, and cultural creation. Founded in 2004 as the first home-visit-based, mutual aid children's medical care organization, Florence addresses issues such as single-parent support, child poverty prevention, assistance for families with children with disabilities, and preventing child abuse and parental isolation.

Notably, Florence's “Home Nursery” model was recognized in 2015 as a national policy for solving the issue of waiting childcare spots. Furthermore, initiatives such as the pioneering “Helen’s Nursery” specialized for children with disabilities, and solutions for child abuse through programs like “Florence’s Pregnancy Consultation” and “Baby Adoption,” among others, highlight its comprehensive strategy in the child welfare space. Together with numerous partners, Florence is creating a new norm in society.

For more insights into the impactful work of Florence, please visit their corporate website: Florence Corporate Site.