Any favela can sign-up for participation, and the organizers are pleased to take on volunteers to help in the organization and running of the event.

The Projeto de Braços Abertos (Open Arms Project)uses sport to unite and entertain members of the communities of Rocinha, Borel, Manguinhos, Maré, Jacarezinho, Vidigal e Santa Maria, as well as to create meaningful links between these communities and the wider carioca population.

Regular races are held across the year -  In 2015, the first event was a 5km and 10km race held in Borel in March.

The second race took place in Vidigal in June, followed by another in Caju in August - In Vidigal the most successful community athletes were awarded with sports equipment and one year of training to encourage them to pursue their athletic careers.