2026-06-27 Miami Association Hosts ‘VegRun’ Charity Fun Run, Promoting Environmental Protection Through Plant-Based Living

On June 27, the Miami Association of the Buddha’s Light International Association hosted the “VegRun Charity Run” at Volunteers Park, located near the temple. The event thoughtfully combined a guided exploration of the local wetland ecosystem with educational insights into plants and wildlife, encouraging participants to reconnect with Mother Earth and put the true spirit of “VegRun” (embracing plant-based living) into practice.

After an early-morning shower had passed, the weather was cool and pleasant. More than 30 members of the Buddha’s Light community and Friends of Buddha’s Light gathered to enjoy a healthy and uplifting morning of running and fellowship.

Before the run, Association Vice President Qiu Biyun led the participants in a warm-up exercise at the pavilion to prepare for the event. The run then officially began at the command of Venerable Zhi Qun. The group made its way along the park’s trails with energy and enthusiasm.

The park borders a protected wetland area, making the route rich in wildlife and vegetation. Participants had the opportunity to observe wild animals such as turtles and iguanas up close, as well as a variety of plants, including water lilies and tropical fruit trees. The event was therefore not only a physical workout, but also a lively lesson in nature and ecology. Children who joined the outing were able to experience firsthand the importance of “protecting the environment and caring for the mind,” as well as the need to cherish and protect our planet.

Venerable Zhi Qun explained that the “VegRun Charity Run” is being actively promoted by the Buddha’s Light International Association worldwide. The initiative seeks to bring together four core values—environmental protection, charity, care for living beings, and health—and turn them into energetic, meaningful action. Through these efforts, the program aims to awaken environmental awareness, help restore vitality to the Earth and all living beings, encourage people to run toward better health, and strengthen the sense of community.

The event was co-organized by three local chapters. From the initial planning and site inspection to equipment and refreshments, every aspect reflected the Buddha’s Light community’s spirit of collective creativity, teamwork, and shared responsibility.

Remarkably, just as the event came to a successful conclusion, rain began to fall once again. Participants could not help but marvel at the timing, as though nature itself had been touched by their sincere intentions and helped bring this meaningful gathering to fruition.

In addition, Xing Dongmei, president of the Fort Lauderdale Chapter, specially invited local neighbors to participate. She said she hoped to introduce the positive culture of the Buddha’s Light Association’s VegRun Charity Run to the surrounding community, extending its spirit of compassion to people from diverse backgrounds, breaking through cultural barriers, and joining hands to do their part in protecting the Earth.