2025-06-08 Miami Fo Guang Shan Members Beach Walk: Protecting Nature and Supporting Education.

On the morning of June 8 at 9:30 a.m., the BLIA (Buddha’s Light International Association) Miami Chapter held the “2025 VegRun – Vegetarian Charity Walk” at the scenic El Trado Beach Park, simultaneously with Fo Guang temples across North America, in support of BLIA’s vision of environmental protection and inner well-being. The event attracted more than 30 members and friends of Fo Guang, embodying Humanistic Buddhism’s commitment to physical and mental wellness as well as charitable service.

This year’s charity run continued the initiative “I Run, You Support Education.” The Miami Chapter tailored the campaign to local needs, calling on participants to accumulate walking and running mileage between June 8 and August 8. Based on the total mileage achieved, the chapter will raise funds to purchase backpacks and school supplies, which will be donated before the new school term to economically disadvantaged schools—helping underprivileged children start school with peace of mind. This effort not only spreads love and hope but also concretely fulfills the Fo Guang mission of “giving others hope.”

A highlight of the event was the enthusiastic participation across generations and communities, reflecting the warmth and inclusiveness of the Fo Guang family. One Fo Guang family of three joined together, with 7-year-old Zhuozhuo completing the full walk alongside her parents, becoming the youngest participant. At the same time, Fo Guang members in their mid-70s also walked the entire route with steady steps, radiating health and joy—an inspiring sight. Before the walk, members led a Tai Chi warm-up session, which drew the interest of several local English-speaking residents and Fo Guang friends, allowing them to experience BLIA’s values of vegetarianism, environmentalism, and charity.

The walk unfolded under gentle sea breezes and warm sunshine. Guided by Venerable Ruyuan, participants strolled along the beach trail in close contact with nature. Walking past marked sea turtle nesting areas, Fo Guang members deepened their understanding of life protection and compassion, embracing mindfulness and relaxation with each step. Along the way, participants encouraged each other, shared laughter, and embodied the Fo Guang spirit of unity, support, and joyful companionship. At the finish line, the association provided a refreshment station and vegetarian food sharing, allowing participants to recharge while further promoting a healthy, eco-friendly vegetarian lifestyle.

BLIA Miami Chapter President Yan-Hua Deng remarked: “VegRun is not just a walking event—it is a way for Fo Guang members to actively support charity, care for the planet, and promote vegetarianism. Seeing Fo Guang families participate wholeheartedly brings me great joy, and I hope that in the future, the compassionate spirit of Humanistic Buddhism can be spread to more communities and hearts.”