Lake Merritt Run Club
Community Grants
Supporting youth running programs, local schools, and the greater Bay Area running community — because running belongs to everyone.
About the program
Running for a Better Oakland
Lake Merritt Run Club is an affiliate member of the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) and through that affiliation operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We are a volunteer-based running club committed to building a stronger, healthier Bay Area community through running.
Towards these ends, we have given grants, in-kind donations, offered timing support, collaborated on runs, and engaged in other partnerships with the greater Bay Area running community. We hope to continue these efforts and ask that you fill out the form below with as much detail as possible so that we can collaborate and bolster the Bay Area running community.
Camaraderie
We build opportunities for runners by providing education and increasing engagement across the East Bay community.
Community
We outreach to the community and build external partnerships to bring running to everyone — regardless of background or ability.
Collaboration
We collaborate with youth groups, schools, organizations, and local businesses to enrich the running community.
Empowerment
We increase self-esteem and confidence through the healthy practice of running — especially among youth.
How we help
Types of Support We Offer
Cash Grants
Direct financial support for qualifying youth running programs and school racing teams throughout the East Bay.
In-Kind Donations
Race bibs, timing support, apparel, equipment, and other in-kind contributions to community programs.
Timing Support
Race timing services for community events, school races, and youth running programs in the Bay Area.
Partnerships
Collaborative runs, joint events, and ongoing partnerships with community organizations, schools, and running groups.
Community impact
Who We’ve Supported
We have proudly supported the following organizations and programs in the East Bay running community:
Running for a Better Oakland
Youth running program bringing running to Oakland students and underserved communities
Local School Racing Teams
Supporting school cross country and track teams throughout the East Bay with grants and timing support
Kids Races
Sponsoring free Kids and Youth races at our monthly Fourth Sunday Race at Lake Merritt
Community Run Events
Partnering with local organizations on community runs, fun runs, and Bay Area running events
Apply for a grant
Grant Application
We hope to continue our community efforts and ask that you fill out the form below with as much detail as possible so that we can collaborate and bolster the Bay Area running community. All applications are reviewed by the Lake Merritt Run Club board.
Questions About Our Grant Program?
Email us at info@lakemerrittrunclub.org