The Art of Living Foundation organized the first Annual 5K Run on October 29 at Boston College to raise awareness of the urgent need to support “education for all” that fosters human values, especially among youth, in order to address escalating levels of stress, violence and unhappiness in society today.  There were more than 50 people who participated in this run/walk. This event raised funds for Art of Living Youth Programs, which empower youth to live life to their highest potential.  Through these innovative programs, youth learn to release stress, manage negative emotions, foster human values and develop leadership skills as well as engage in service.  Funds raised have been allocated to the Foundation’s Trauma Relief efforts in areas impacted by Hurricane Katrina.

Students who attend Art of Living programs report experiencing relief from stress and negative emotions. After completing the course they often report feeling happier, calmer and more focused as well as empowered to take responsibility for their lives and futures.

Recently, a version of the program was taught at a probation school in Marysville, California.   The school works with 12-to-18-year-old youth who have either been previously incarcerated or are one step away from being locked up. Francesca Jackson, director of the Art of Living Prison Program, taught the course. “With two Sudarshan Kriya® [breathing techniques] behind them, they are beginning to become themselves,” she says.  “Their faces are soft. They’ve become just regular kids again. Small victories for these kids are so huge.”

The 5K Run for Youth is one of many special events leading up to the foundation’s worldwide Silver Jubilee celebration taking place in February 2006 at its international headquarters in Bangalore, India. Some 2.5 million people are expected to attend, including heads of state, spiritual leaders, and dignitaries from around the world.

About the Foundation:  The Art of Living Foundation (AOLF) is the largest volunteer based Non-Governmental Organization in the world with a wide range of social, cultural and humanitarian activities. It was founded in 1982 by His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as an international educational and humanitarian non-profit organization.  Active in over 145 countries worldwide, the Foundation has reached out to over 20 million people who represent all walks of life, religions, cultures and traditions. The Foundation works in special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations, participating in a variety of committees and activities relating to health, education, sustainable development and conflict resolution. 

For more information or to register for the event, please visit:
http://www.artoflivingyouth.org or call 617.459.8264.

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