While the headlines often focus on the challenges facing our world, something truly uplifting is happening right here in our own backyard.
As we celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the UN Charter, we are excited to share a unique, broader “town and gown” partnership that brings university-community collaboration in the spirit of the United Nations’ founding in 1945 back to life. This year, the UN Charter Trail—a three-mile heritage walk following the 7 most important landmarks of the UN Founders on a path connecting San Francisco’s Civic Center to Nob Hill—has become a living classroom for a new generation of peacebuilders.
The UC Berkeley “UN 101” Connection
UC Berkeley has launched an innovative course titled GLOBAL 198: United Nations 101
Rather than just sitting in a lecture hall, these students are using the UN Charter Trail as a learning tool.
Inspiring UN 101 Course: “provides an introduction to the history, structure, and global role of the United Nations (UN), crafted in conjunction with the 80th Anniversary of the establishment of the United Nations” (from the UC Berkeley course syllabus)
Learning by Walking: Students are literally “stepping into the footsteps” of the original delegates, press, and staff who founded the United Nations right over in San Francisco, reminding us that history isn’t just something to be remembered—it’s something to be walked and reimagined.
#EveryStepCounts: The 1,000,000 Step Walkathon
To celebrate this milestone, the UN Charter Trail (UNCT) is hosting a Walkathon now through Charter Day (June 26, 2026).
The Goal: Collectively reach 1 million steps to symbolize global solidarity and connect us to the 1945 UN delegates who dreamed of a world without war.
The Legacy: This Walkathon is also a fundraiser for seven bronze plaques that will permanently mark the UN heritage sites in San Francisco. These plaques will ensure that the UN’s birthplace remains a visible, proud part of our local identity for decades to come.
Step into the Walkathon!
How great if our Marin chapter could represent a significant portion of those 1 million steps. Make your step count toward a more peaceful future.
How to Add Steps: Visit UNCharterTrail.org to sign up for the Walkathon. You can register for free to access the self-guided audio tour and help us hit our million-step goal!
Help Us Lead the Way: We are looking for Peace Ambassadors to join us on June 25th, 26th, and 27th. As we walk the UN Charter Trail with San Francisco City Guides, we need friendly faces to help usher our groups and represent the spirit of UNA. You’ll be the ‘heart of the huddle,’ keeping us connected as we walk history together. Want to be a Peace Ambassador for the day? Let us know by emailing unamarinchapter@gmail.com or Jennie@GenSphire.com.
Save the Date: Mark your calendars and sign up for the Charter Day Celebration on June 26th, featuring 3 days of special guided tours on June 25th, June 26th, and June 27th (first-come, first-served)!
Consider joining our UNA Marin Community!
In addition to supporting UN Charter Trail (UNCT), we offer educational programs and exciting salons on a range of UN topics, lead Advocacy efforts in Marin County, statewide in California, and at the national level to support global cooperation. Additionally, we host fun book club discussion groups and support Model UN student programs. Consider joining our community and becoming a member to receive information about upcoming events and initiatives.
With hope and gratitude,
UNA Marin Board
About UNA: With more than 200 UNA Chapters across the country and more than 20,000 members, the United Nations Association is the largest single organization dedicated to supporting the UN and promoting the priorities behind its vital work.