We all run for
different reasons. The obvious and perhaps the most common reasons have to do
with staying fit and creating a healthy balance in life.
Numerous
non-profit organizations have developed training and fundraising programs
around running events from the 5K to the triathlon. Go to any major marathon
and you'll see hundreds of runners along the course supporting their favorite
cause. All of these runners, and those associated with other programs or their
own personal causes, have spent hours training and fundraising. Why do they do
it?
Struggling
through a training run or a race is nothing when compared to the challenges
faced by those fighting illness, disease, or unemployment, violent acts of
nature, political persecution, economic and social degradation, or other
hardships. Running for a cause can help put things in perspective.
The rewards for those who run for a cause are priceless: new friendships, a feeling of tremendous accomplishment in helping others, the thrill of crossing the finish line, and a new attitude about running (and life).
If you are
interested in running for a cause, there are many different programs from which
to choose. Some options are listed below (just google them for current web url's and site info). Each program is different, but the
rewards of running for a cause are undoubtedly the same.
AIDS / HIV - List of AIDS Walks
Alzheimer's - Alzheimer's Association Memory Walk
Arthritis - Arthritis Foundation (5K and Marathon)
Asthma - American Lung Association Asthma Walk
Birth Defects - March of Dimes Walk America
Bread for the World
Cancer - American Cancer Society (Relay for Life)
The Cancer Council Australia (Relay for Life)
Canadian Cancer Society (Relay for Life)
CAPA
Diabetes - American Diabetes Association (5K)
Canadian Diabetes Association (Marathon)
Disabilities - Easter Seals Walk with Me
Drunk Driving - MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) (5K Walk)
Feeding America
Habitat for Humanity
Health Ed Connect
Heart Health - American Heart Association Heart Walk (5K)
Heifer International
Hospice - The National Hospice Foundation (Marathon or Half
Marathon)
Hunger Relief - Cropwalk (Various lengths)
Kiwanis International Eliminate Project
Kidney Disease - National Kidney Foundation Kidney Walk
Liver Disease - American Liver Foundation (Boston Marathon)
Lupus - Alliance for Lupus Research (Walk-a-thon)
Multiple Sclerosis - MS Society (5K and 3 Day)
Outreach International
Orphans Africa
Pencils of Promise
Partnership for a Healthier America
Soles 4 Souls
Sustainable Hope International
Water.org
World Vision
Water.org
World Vision
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