Charity runs and marathons are a big deal. Search for a charity run in your area and you’re bound to find a host of options throughout the year, each supporting causes ranging from cancer research to bringing clean water to remote villages in Africa.
Now, I could make a list of runs for you – but honestly? The ones you can do often depend on where you are. And we all know, for example, how big of a deal something like the St. Jude 5k Weekend is.
I will quickly mention a run near and dear to my heart: The Cancer Kickers Big Buffalo 50! This 50-mile run directly benefits The Cancer Kickers Soccer Club, a charity my wife and I founded to provide community, care, and support for children battling cancer around the world. The 2024 race will be held Saturday, March 23, so I wanted to put it on your radar!
With that said, how do charity 5Ks, runs, and marathons work? Here’s what you need to know and how to make the most of your participation!
5 Ways to Make the Most of a Charity Run
#1 – Push for Sponsorships
Charity runs raise money in a variety of ways. They often collect a registration fee and try to get corporate sponsors to donate big sums of money. In many cases, though, the runners themselves contribute by landing sponsors of their own. The model may vary, but it usually involves sponsors pledging a dollar amount per mile completed.
Start with yourself. Pick an amount you’re comfortable with donating and put money on yourself. From there, talk about it. Let your friends and family know that they’re not only supporting a worthy cause, but they’re spurring you on to accomplish something big! With their pledges riding on you, you know you’ll finish strong. Make direct asks, talk about your training on social media, and make it clear how others can contribute from the sidelines.
#2 – Pick a Run Suited for You
As an avid endurance runner, the races I’d pick may be different from the ones a novice runner should do. Be sure you’re selecting charity races that are suited to your ability. While you should go for a challenge, you want it to be possible to prepare for. Think about how much time you have for training. And remember, these fundraisers include many skill levels. In some cases, they may offer different lengths or intensities to accommodate as many people as possible!
Just know that you can find a run to do regardless of your skill and experience.
#3 – Train Accordingly
Naturally, you want to put your best foot forward come race day. Develop a training plan and schedule and stick to it! Just remember to include proper rest and recovery strategies. It would be a shame to injure yourself and have to drop out of the race! Take training seriously – including your diet.
#4 – Investigate the Organization
Whenever you want to sign up for a charity race, be sure you investigate the organization hosting it. You want to ensure that 100% of pledges and donations go towards the cause. Additionally, you may want to see if the organization aligns with your values and has a track record of integrity and transparency. If you’re unsure, ask questions.
There are plenty of races out there if you get the sense that something isn’t quite right. Don’t settle. but choose a cause and an organization you can truly get behind.
#5 – Consider Virtual Marathons
During the pandemic, virtual marathons emerged as an alternative. Even without the need for social distancing, these types of runs can be a great option for busy people! They work much the same as a traditional race, but without a set course. The idea is that you take part wherever you happen to be. Sometimes you go at your own pace and choose when to run. Others will set a specific day and start time.
While you may miss the thrill of running in a pack, there are benefits to this model. For one, you don’t have to travel to participate – or battle the inevitable influx of race-day traffic. If you can’t take the time to travel, virtual runs limit your time commitment to the race itself.
What’s your favorite charity and why? Give them a shout-out in the comments!