Celebrating 50 years
Empowering Young People to Build Brighter Futures
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or taking on your first marathon, every mile you run can help create opportunities for young people to build the confidence, skills and pathways they need to succeed.
This year, The King’s Trust celebrates 50 years of supporting young people around the world. For five decades, the organization has helped more than 1.5 million young people develop the confidence, skills and experience needed to create brighter futures.
To mark this milestone, King’s Trust USA is launching 50 for 50, a year-long challenge bringing together 50+ runners to take on iconic races across the United States while raising vital funds for young people facing barriers to education, employment and enterprise.
Together, we aim to raise at least $150,000 to help more young people unlock their potential and access opportunities for the future.
From first-time marathoners to experienced runners, every participant plays a part in helping young people take their next step toward a brighter future. Choose your race, set your fundraising goal and join a community united by purpose.
Walt Disney World
January 11, 2027
January 11, 2027
Two Anniversaries, One Finish Line
As the Walt Disney World Half Marathon celebrates its 30th anniversary, The King’s Trust celebrates 50 years of transforming young lives.
Through our 50-for-50 Marathon Challenge, we’re bringing these two milestones together at Disney Marathon Weekend — running with purpose, celebrating an incredible legacy, and helping create opportunities for the next generation.
Our Spots for 2027
Register
Join Team King’s Trust USA for the 2027 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. Reach out to marathon@kingstrust.us and complete our interest form to apply.
APPLY NOWMeet the inspiring individuals taking on the 50 for 50 challenge. Each runner is helping to raise vital funds and awareness, supporting King’s Trust USA programs that equip young people with the confidence, skills and opportunities they need to thrive.
Paul Rennie OBE
His Majesty’s Consul General in Los Angeles
His Majesty’s Consul General in Los Angeles
Marathon: Los Angeles
Race motivation: Turning community spirit into real, lasting impact. Every mile is a reminder that with the right support, a young person’s future can change completely. Running in LA feels like the perfect way to help open doors for those who deserve a chance at a bright future.
Training soundtrack: High-energy anthems!
Post-marathon treat: “Chocolate!! And also not having to do any training for a few days …”
What I’m most looking forward to on race day: The buzz and the atmosphere. Being able to see LA from a whole different perspective. And being able to finish knowing I’ve been part of something worthwhile in raising money for The King’s Trust.
Charlie Jardine
Marathon: Los Angeles
Race motivation: As an entrepreneurial Brit, living in LA, The Kings Trust is very close to my heart!
Training soundtrack: Soundtrack to my life, by Kid Cudi
Post-marathon treat: Pint of Hazy IPA
What I’m most looking forward to on race day: Jumping in the ocean and then drinking a pint when I finish
Holly Brooks
Marathon: Los Angeles
Race motivation: This will be my fourth marathon, each has a different ‘why’ but this one is honestly motivated by the amazing work the Trust are doing for young people. Remembering that is what I am running and raising money for is going to get me through!
Training soundtrack: Anything Olivia Dean gets me through!
Post-marathon treat: ALWAYS a pizza (specifically from Emmys in Santa Monica)
What I’m most looking forward to on race day: Marathons bring such an incredible sense of community, I can’t wait to just feel the excitement from the crowds and fellow runners.
Register to Join the Race
Run for a Purpose. Take on the 50 for 50 challenge and help create opportunities for young people across the U.S. Whether it’s your first marathon or your fiftieth, every mile helps a young person build confidence, skills and experience.
Donate
Your donation helps King’s Trust USA provide programs that build confidence, develop skills and open pathways to education, employment and enterprise.
Share the Movement
Help Us Reach More People. Share the 50 for 50 campaign with your friends, colleagues and networks. Every conversation, post and share helps raise awareness and support for young people.
Inspire a Runner
Invite Someone to Take on the Challenge. Know someone who loves a challenge or has always wanted to run a marathon? Encourage them to join 50 for 50 and help create brighter futures for young people.
Runner Resources
Everything You Need for Race Day Success. Access fundraising tools, campaign materials, important dates and support to help you make the most of your 50 for 50 experience.
Runner FAQ
Find answers to common questions about fundraising, training, race participation and campaign support.
Your 50 for 50 Hub
Welcome to the team. We’re excited to have you join the 50 for 50 campaign in support of King’s Trust USA.
This resource hub has everything you need to prepare for race day, including fundraising materials, campaign guidance, key dates and practical tools to help you achieve your goals and maximize your impact for young people.
Fundraising
Fundraising is at the heart of the 50-for-50 campaign, and we’re here to help you succeed. Please download your fundraising toolkit here. This includes practical fundraising strategies, suggested timelines, ready-to-use email and social media templates. You’ll also find creative ideas to help you engage your network and keep momentum strong throughout your journey.
Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) giving
Yes — giving through your DAF is easy:
We’ll send an acknowledgment once your gift is received.
Social Media
Sharing your journey helps inspire others. As you train, race, and celebrate your marathon moments, we’d love for you to tag King’s Trust USA and mention us in your posts. Your voice helps raise awareness, build momentum, and show how many people are coming together to support young people to build brighter futures. Tag us:
Use our campaign hashtag: #50for50 (and any others you’d like to include) Mention us in your caption so we can see, share, and celebrate your post Stories count too! Tag us in Instagram Stories so we can reshare your journey Follow us on social media:
Subscribe to our newsletter here.
Race Dates, Milestones & Day of Logistics
Race Dates, Milestones & Day of Logistics
Dates, deadlines, and day-of logistics will be updated as we receive additional information. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please check back soon or reach out to marathon@kingstrust.us.
Support & FAQs
If you didn’t find what you were looking for here, please head over to the FAQ section and take a look. If you still have questions, please reach out over email.
For general questions, fundraising support, recruitment help please email:
marathon@kingstrust.us.
50 Years of Supporting Young People
Nearly 50 years ago, His Majesty King Charles III founded The King’s Trust, then The Prince’s Trust, on the belief that every young person deserves the chance to succeed.
Today, it works with partners worldwide to help young people build the confidence, skills and experience to thrive in education, employment and enterprise. Having supported more than 1.5 million young people, it continues to create pathways to brighter futures. Three in four move into work, education or training.
Creating Opportunities, Building Futures
King’s Trust USA delivers programs across the country to help young people overcome barriers and access opportunities.
Since launching in 2023, Enterprise Challenge has helped young people in New York, Chicago, Detroit, Orlando and San Jose explore entrepreneurship, build workplace skills and gain confidence through hands-on learning, in partnership with schools and community organizations.
Every young person has potential, yet too many face barriers to opportunities, networks and support. King’s Trust USA helps change that by building the confidence, skills and connections young people need to take their next step.
When you run, fundraise or donate through 50 for 50, you’re doing more than supporting a marathon. You’re helping young people unlock their potential and build brighter futures.
Learn more in our Annual Reports.
Enterprise Challenge
Explore stories from participants whose ideas, determination and teamwork demonstrate what’s possible when young people are given the opportunity to develop their skills and confidence.
Everything You Need to Know
Still have questions? Contact us and we’ll be happy to answer your questions!
Email UsEmployer Matching
Yes! Many employers offer matching gift programs that can double — or even triple — the impact of your donation. Check with your company to see what’s available, and be sure to request a match once you’ve completed your fundraising so your support can go even further. Follow your company’s internal matching process — if documentation is required, we’re happy to help.
How to request a matching gift:
Other employer matching options:
Mail a check from your company (or its foundation) to:
King’s Trust USA
45 W 27th Street
New York, NY 10001
Arrange a wire transfer by having your employee matching department contact natalie.newhard@kingstrust.us.
Encouraging your employer to match your donation is a simple way to maximize your impact. Check here to see whether your employer offers matching gifts or volunteer grants.
Where does the money go?
The money you raise goes directly toward supporting young people in the U.S. in the areas where the need is greatest.
Do I need to pay my own race registration fee?
Race fees vary by marathon. Some races include the registration fee as part of King’s Trust USA charity package, while others require runners to pay the fee separately. King’s Trust USA provides fundraising support, materials, and community; race registration fees are determined by each marathon. All runners register directly with the organization responsible for their chosen marathon and will be prompted to pay the registration fee at the time of registration if applicable.
For questions about a specific marathon, please email marathon@kingstrust.us.
Is there a minimum fundraising requirement?
The fundraising minimum varies by marathon, but we encourage runners to set a meaningful goal that reflects the campaign. If you have any questions or want to talk through what a strong or realistic goal might be, just let us know — we’re here to support you every step of the way.
What happens if I miss my goal?
If marathon day comes around and you still haven’t reached your goal, no worries — just reach out to us. We can strategize together on final pushes, matching gift outreach, and simple ways to close the gap.
The fundraising deadline varies by marathon. Please refer to your signed commitment form for your specific race’s deadline. As outlined in the form, any remaining balance needed to reach your fundraising commitment will be charged to the credit card information you provided. We’ll always do everything we can to support you before that point so you feel confident and set up for success.
Can friends join the team later in the year?
Absolutely. Recruitment is ongoing — and we can do the outreach if you’d prefer.
Please refer to your fundraising toolkit for more information and resources about recruitment.
How does 50-for-50 work?
Runners take part in select, iconic U.S. marathons throughout 2026 and early 2027, fundraising along the way. Together, their individual efforts unite around one powerful goal: raising $150,000 in celebration of The King’s Trust’s 50th anniversary and opening the door to life-changing opportunities for young people who need them most. All funds raised through 50-for-50 support young people in the United States and are directed to areas of greatest need.
How does my donation make an impact?
Your gift helps change the trajectory of a young person’s life. It enables King’s Trust USA to provide the skills, confidence, and belief young people need to take their next step — whether that’s into education, employment, or entrepreneurship. By investing in potential at a pivotal moment, your support doesn’t just open doors today; it helps shape brighter, more independent futures for years to come.
Can I give through a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)?
Yes — giving through your DAF is easy:
We’ll send an acknowledgment once your gift is received.
I can’t run — can I still get involved?
Absolutely. Whether you donate, cheer from the sidelines, or help spread the word on social media, every form of support helps move this campaign — and young people’s futures — forward.
You can also explore the stories of our runners and support an individual participant whose journey resonates with you.
