At 261 Fearless, we believe volunteering is a powerful way to empower women. We provide volunteering opportunities for women to gain skills, knowledge, and confidence that can be used in all areas of their lives. Over 600 women have certified as 261 Coaches to become leaders and share the transformative power of running with women in their local communities. Some have volunteered for over a decade!
What is it about volunteering with 261 Fearless that makes women stay?
What you gain as a volunteer 261 Coach:ï‚·
- Education– initial training and free ongoing education created and delivered by experts
- Connections– new friends locally, nationally and globally
- Community– a sense of belonging and a network of cheerleaders
- Purpose – great satisfaction from helping women on their fitness journeys and watching them flourish as individuals
- Excitement – Contributing to something bigger and feeling part of a global movement is exhilarating ï‚·
- Personal growth – moving out of your comfort zone to learning about yourself and expanding your skills, confidence and world 
- Kit– a full set of running kit (including awesome shoes), every year, from our partners at Adidas
- Events– invitations to exclusive events such as our recent International Coach Summit in Vienna or events with other partners such as Peloton
What the 261 Coaches say…
‘Volunteering has given me opportunities to learn new things, to access information and skills to grow as both a coach and runner, and as an individual. I have seen the power of women coming together to fearlessly uplift and promote each other without gatekeeping. I have also felt like this network is a place where I can make a difference to not only myself, but my community and perhaps even contribute to the network at large in a meaningful wayas I find my path within it’.
‘A sense of community and social capital that cannot be ‘bought’ or ‘hired’. I have realised that the invisible value that volunteering brings is not just the individuals experience of running together, but it goes wider than that. On Club Meet Run nights I see policewomen talking to retail workers, talking to firewomen, talking to retirees, talking to teachers, talking to mums, talking to remote workers. This improves the relationship between women outside the Meet Run and makes the town where we all live feel more connected, trusting and inclusive. It improves and benefits our society more than I thought when taking on the role of a coach. In 2026, more people are lonely than ever and each week we build a sense of shared interest, a place to talk and a sense of belonging. I love enabling this’.
‘Volunteering with 261 Fearless has given me a deep sense of connection to the global and local community of supportive women. I’ve had the chance to meet people from completely different walks of life who share a common goal of encouragement and growth. This group has provided me with long-lasting friendships and uplifted me during challenging times’.
Why do you teach leadership skills?
We know that women make excellent leaders, but they sometimes lack the confidence to lead. Therefore, we offer an Education Program where you learn the skills and knowledge. And in your new role as a 261 Coach, you can practice them right away. You will grow in confidence and be able to apply your new leadership skills in many other areas of your life, such as your career.
Where does the training take place?
The initial education program for 261 Coaches, which we call the Train the Trainer course, takes place wherever we have enough applicants and a 261 Club. Upcoming trainings will be held in the USA, the UK, New Zealand, Germany and Austria, but more locations will follow as needed.
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How much time do I have to commit if I want to be a 261 Coach?
If you decide to apply as a 261 Coach in your local 261 Club and embark on an exciting journey of inspiration and fearlessness, you need to be aware of the commitment it takes. First of all, as a 261 Coach you are always part of a team and don’t have to take the responsibility all on your own. Secondly, your tasks are varied: You prepare and lead weekly Meet Runs for your members, you participate in the ongoing education program (minimum of 3 one-hour online Empowerment Classes, one in-person meeting per year) and you support with administration and outreach for your local club. If you think this fits into your schedule, we encourage you to apply!
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How do I apply for the programs?
The public Education Programs are offered to all women, no application is necessary.
If you would like to become a 261 Coach and inspire women in your community to run, we encourage you to apply online and our education team will reach out to guide you through the process.
Apply to be a 261 Coach
If you would like to set up your own non-profit organization in your country, please learn more here:
Apply to be a 261 Club Director
