History of the Run
In 1989, the idea for this fundraiser was presented to the Friends of CCVI by the former Michael Forbes Restaurants, Inc., which owned two restaurants, four miles apart in the heart of Kansas City and The Plaza shopping area. The four-mile course follows the old streetcar/trolley tracks and hence, the name, Trolley Run. Trolley Run is the largest annual fundraiser for Children's Center for the Visually Impaired and provides critical funding to support the specialized education and individualized therapies children receive every year. Now in its 38th year, Trolley Run has succeeded through the generous support of our individual and corporate sponsors, including former title sponsors Sabates Eye Centers, NASB, and many others.
Trolley Run Fast Facts
Since 1998, home of Men’s Four-mile U.S. Best | Since 1999, home of Men’s Masters Four-mile U.S. Best | Since 2000, home of Women’s Four-mile Course Record
The CCVI Trolley Run is one of Kansas City's oldest and largest runs?!
It was the first major run in Kansas City to use chip technology for race results!
Our 4-mile course is a record-breaking run! Holding records since 1998!
Look back through the years and check out past winners, results and photos from Trolley Run! Maybe you'll recgonize a name or face!
Culture of the Run
It's Great to Lace Up with You!
Kansas City's most inspiring race will be held on April 26, 2026. Trolley Run is the largest fundraiser for Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired (CCVI). All money raised from the race supports educational or therapeutic services for kids with vision impairment, including those with multiple disabilities.
Each year, thousands of runners take to the streets of Waldo, Brookside, and the Country Club Plaza for a 4-mile route full of fun! Some of us go for gold finishing the race in under 18 minutes(!) and some of us take our time, stop for pictures with friends and stroll down the beautiful boulevards. It doesn't matter if you're fast or finish last. When you join the race, you're already on the winning team.
One of Kansas City's Most Inclusive Parties
We're about bringing the community together for an amazing cause-- no experience or athletic ability required. Since the CCVI Trolley Run is owned and operated by Children's Center for the Visually Impaired, our priority is ensuring all feel welcome, regardless of ability, ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, or gender.
