Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on February 2012

If the excitement of the Tokyo Marathon has got your running juices flowing, slip on your sneakers for the Paracup, a charity marathon raising awareness and funds for problems affecting the world’s children. This year, local NGO PLAS Aids Orphans Support, which provides schooling and job training for children orphaned by AIDS in Uganda and Kenya, is co-sponsoring the event along with many other worthy organizations. Some of the money raised will also go to children affected by the 3/11 disasters. Participants can choose from a 10K, 5K and 1K kids’ run, as well as a half-marathon. The course runs along the verdant Tamagawa River, so you can even enjoy a bit of an escape from the metropolis while doing your part. And everybody gets a T-shirt.

Apr 8, 8am. ¥4,800, ¥2,400 (MS). Nearest stn: Kashimada. www.paracup.info

harvest boon

Second Harvest Japan, an organization devoted to creating a food safety net for people in need, is hoping to fill three positions. One is a full-time or semi-full-time administrative assistant with native Japanese level writing and communications skills. The second is a bilingual COO to oversee their four program areas. Lastly, they need a driver to make food deliveries. Obviously, a valid driver’s license is necessary for that one. If this tickles your interest, just get in touch with your statement of interest and résumé.

For more information, email Charles McJilton at info@2hj.org; www.2hj.org