On weekend mornings, West Philadelphia and Norristown come alive with music, cheering and the thump of sneakers.

What looks like a neighborhood festival is the Healthy Kids Running Series (HKRS), a national nonprofit that creates inclusive, entry-level running experiences for kids across the U.S. CHOP leads and operates the HKRS programs in these two area communities so children ages 2–18 can discover the joy of running while building confidence and healthy habits. Learn More

Established through CHOP Cares Grant funding, the HKRS sites in West Philadelphia and Norristown aim to remove cost barriers and keep participation within reach for families.

Guided by Community Health Needs Assessment learnings, CHOP makes participation accessible by reducing the national fee of $45–$50 to just $5. Each child receives a shirt, race bibs, a swag bag, snacks and a finisher medal, ensuring runners feel welcomed and supported, and that families with multiple children can easily participate.

Both CHOP sites are entirely volunteer-run, with about 10 CHOP employee volunteers per location each race day. Volunteers arrive early to measure distances, set up courses, time races, guide families, and, most importantly, cheer every child along the course and across the finish line.

Older participants earn weekly points toward a season trophy, boosting motivation. A local youth DJ — who first got involved with the program as a high school student — keeps spirits high, while longtime volunteers lead warm-ups and confidence-building chants that help every child feel ready to give it their all.

Each location hosts two five-week programs a year — one in the spring and one in the fall. Younger children warm up with games before short dashes, while older youth take on longer distances.

In West Philadelphia, races unfold on an open grass field; in Norristown, runners compete on a full track. A Challenger Division supports runners with disabilities, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably. By Week 5, progress is unmistakable as children who were hesitant early often run independently, gaining stamina, confidence and pride.

The two CHOP HKRS sites welcome an average of 125 participants each season. Since launching in West Philadelphia in 2014 and expanding to Norristown in 2023, participants have logged a combined 260 miles, reflecting the program’s steady growth and reach.

Many families arrive early or stay after so kids can play and parents can connect, building friendships that bring them back year after year. Learn more about the program and how to get involved.