In response to United Nations World Environment Day and to promote the “Environmental and Spiritual Preservation” concept for global sustainability, the BLIA Chicago Chapter held the “VEGRUN: Run for Hope” charity event on June 22. Nearly 70 participants, including BLIA members, families, and friends from both Chinese and English-speaking backgrounds, gathered at the scenic Herrick Lake Forest Preserve to practice the Humanistic Buddhist ideal of protecting the Earth.
Venerable Yung Han, Head Priest of Fo Guang Shan Chicago, thanked the participants for braving the summer heat to support VEGRUN. She noted that running amidst the lush greenery and fresh air to promote environmental protection and animal welfare, while nurturing compassion through a plant-based diet, is the ultimate practice of “Environmental and Spiritual Preservation.”
The event created a beautiful scene as members in blue “Chicago VEGRUN” T-shirts—ranging from seniors to youth—lined the lakefront under clear blue skies. The group even included members from the BLIA Orlando Chapter in Florida, blending nature and community into a vibrant landscape of health and hope.
The various subchapters and the Young Adult Division (YAD) collaborated to prepare a feast of vegetarian sandwiches, cold noodles, refreshing drinks, and fruit. English Subchapter President Steve Haverkos personally grilled corn and vegetable skewers to share. After lunch, the Florida members led a high-difficulty team-building game involving transporting water cups with ropes, which greatly enhanced the spirit of collective cooperation.
The activities continued with Dr. Wei-Ming Sun, a Chapter Director, teaching authentic Chinese Tai Chi to demonstrate the beauty of movement in stillness. Participants also enjoyed badminton and slacklining. Bao-Xi Du, President of the Third Subchapter, even composed a poem on-site to capture the joy of the scenery, the food, and the spiritual insights gained from the run.
Visiting guest Chen Ying-Rong from Japan, attending her second VEGRUN, expressed her moved feelings regarding the group’s care for nature and respect for life. First-time participant Li Min-Hong, who attended with her husband and grandchildren, praised the enthusiasm of the monastics and the well-organized activities. Venerable Ru Yuan, Head Priest of Guang Ming Temple in Florida, who led a cultural tour to Chicago, also expressed gratitude for the warm reception and the opportunity for inter-chapter learning.
Event Coordinator Hon-Chung Fung concluded by thanking the monastics and volunteers for their hard work in organizing the event despite Chicago’s first major heatwave, ensuring a healthy and joyful day for everyone involved.