Registration IS OPEN
We're excited to see you at the 19th annual Run For The Water 5K, 10 Miler, and Kids K, happening on Sunday, November 9, 2025.
What: Run For The Water 5k, 10-Miler, Kids K
When: Sunday, November 9 2025
How: Register. Registration is OPEN!
Our Mission. Your Movement For Change
Clean water is foundational to reversing the cycle of poverty. In Burundi, one of the poorest countries in the world, waterborne illnesses are the leading cause of death and the majority of the population live in rural, mountainous areas that are difficult to access. For a community there, clean water means:
Better health and freedom from waterborne illnesses,
More time for children to attend school,
Better opportunities to invest in economic and agricultural pursuits,
More happiness,
Less conflict, and
More hope.
Partner with Run For The Water
When you partner with Run For The Water, we’ll introduce you to thousands of new customers and friends. As a much-beloved brand and event, we have a legacy we’re proud of – and we provide incredible opportunities to connect with our noteworthy community.
>> See latest statistics and hear what our partners say click below
>>Watch the video narrated by Gilbert TuhabonyE
Discover how our event, Run For The Water, significantly contributes to our cause, and what you can do to help our friends in Burundi, Africa.
It’s our 19th year, we’re sharing 19 facts about Run For The Water, Burundi and the impact of clean water
Since the race began in 2009, 49,000 people have toed the start line to Run For The Water.
Of those who registered for the 2024 race, 43% signed up for 5k distance.
Run For The Water is a fundraising event benefitting the Gazelle Foundation —100% of event proceeds go to building clean water systems in Burundi.
The energy, rhythmic sounds, and dancing of a dozen Burundian drummers greet finishers, welcoming everyone to the Finish Line Festival presented by Founding Partner Keller Williams
Race participants do NOT get finisher’s medals, this simple cost-saving measure means even more people in Burundi get a lifetime of clean water.
Waterborne diseases are the leading cause of death in Burundi.
Every water system built reduces or eliminates deadly waterborne diseases.
This year, we’re introducing a friendly competition called, “Hill Champion” on a segment of our 10-miler course.
Clean water is available to all people regardless of tribe or religion, healing divisions and building common ground.
Access to water gives people time to grow food, earn an income, spend time with family, and attend school — all of which are foundational to breaking the cycle of poverty.
Overall, we have provided clean water to 138,360 people.
We have invested over $3.3 million in clean water projects in Burundi.
We have created 5,326 jobs.
A typical Gazelle Foundation water system reduces the distance to clean safe water from 4 miles to 400 meters.
To simulate the daily journey of many Burundians, Walk Teams are invited to walk the 5K route trading off the carrying duty of water jugs that weigh 30-40 lbs.
Runner statistics: a quick approximation of the number of steps per mile is as follows: 2,400 for females and 2,112 for males.
Run For The Water is only part of the story. Combined with our other events and your generous donations, 73 water systems have been built bringing clean water to over 138,360 people.
When the construction of a new system kicks off, the life-changing impact begins.
We have built the best community of Supporters and Partners in the world (that's you!).
We've accomplished a lot, but there is still much to do!
WE CAN SOLVE THE WATER CRISIS IN BURUNDI.
IT ALL STARTS RIGHT HERE - WITH YOU.
Burundi needs us and we need you. Each of our events is an opportunity to provide clean water to those who need it most. Join our mailing list, get involved, and help us transform lives in Burundi.
The Gazelle Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
