Running with Purpose: UnionBankers Raise ₱50,000 for Kids with Special Needs
By: Martina Lucero
Over 50 UnionBankers turned their weekend strides into something greater, raising ₱50,000 to help children with special needs receive life-changing therapy. The initiative was part of Miles That Matter 2025, a community fun run held last May 25 at the GStrip Open Parking in San Juan City.
In partnership with Play Plus Therapy Center, The Lighthouse Group, and Greenhills Mall, the event marked Mental Health Awareness Month with a call for inclusion, awareness, and action. Open to runners of all ages and fitness levels, the fun run featured 5KM and 3KM categories, along with a special 100-meter dash exclusively for kids and children with special needs. Proceeds from the event will go toward funding therapy sessions for families facing developmental challenges.
UnionBank’s participation was organized by HR Business Partner Kaye through the GoBeyond Communities program — UnionBank’s employee-led, bank-funded CSR initiative. A runner herself, Kaye had been training for a half marathon when she came across the mission of Play Plus Therapy Center.
“I was moved by their work and the urgent need to support kids who lacked access to therapy due to financial constraints,” she said. “At first, I just thought UnionBank might be able to help, and that thought quickly turned into action.”
Kaye initially opened just 20 complimentary slots to UnionBankers, expecting modest interest. “But within two days, interest surged, and more than a hundred colleagues signed up – even with less than a week’s notice,” she shared. “Given the overwhelming support, we were able to expand capacity and accommodate over 50 runners on a first-come, first-served basis after coordinating with the organizers.”
What began as a personal idea grew into a powerful show of shared purpose. “It reminded me how strong our culture of compassion and inclusion is,” she added. “What seemed like a small step turned into something much bigger.”
For many of the participants, this wasn’t just another weekend run. It was a meaningful and memorable moment.
“This was my first fun run and first charity race, and even though I got lost and arrived late, I still chose to run thanks to UnionBank’s encouragement,” shared Char, an officer from the Bank’s Cyber Defense Center. “What mattered most was showing up and finishing strong, especially for a cause that means so much.”
JM from HR Employer Branding, who has already joined five races this year, said this one stood out. “Running alongside fellow UnionBankers, for a cause that truly matters, just hit differently.”
After the run, participants enjoyed the race village featuring food, refreshments, and wellness booths. Kanto Freestyle Breakfast, Chips Delight, and Pocari Sweat provided freebies, while Cardinal Santos Medical Center offered free health checks. Relive Physical Therapy also gave away prizes and provided free post-run stretches led by licensed physical therapists.
Beyond the race kits, medals, and mileage, Miles That Matter became a true reflection of what UnionBank stands for: a community united by compassion and the purpose to uplift lives.
And it doesn’t end here. With more initiatives in the works through GoBeyond Communities, UnionBankers can look forward to more opportunities to support underserved communities or take the lead in creating meaningful initiatives of their own. Because at UnionBank, uplifting lives isn’t just a purpose, but something we live every day.
* Special thanks to JAPREELS for providing select event photos, including the featured image, loot bag shots, trophy highlights, and audience POV, which helped bring this story to life.