Run For a Cause: An August Calendar For Charitable Runners
The pandemic may have slowed down racing, but it didn't slow down runner's charitable tendencies. Here are 6 good-cause races worth looking at in August.
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
Looking to squeeze in another race or two before the end of summer? Or just feeling extra revved up from watching all the exhilarating action of the Olympic Games happening in Tokyo right now? These virtual and in-person August races not only offer unique, challenging, and fun experiences, but also donate to great causes.
Annual Run for Safe Streets
August 1, Idaho
Making roads safer is a cause most runners can unite around. From all the miles logged on side streets in every weather condition at any time of day, we know that distracted, aggressive, or careless drivers and poorly designed roads can be life-threatening. Registration fees from this virtual and in-person hybrid event will go to Idaho Walk Bike Alliance’s efforts in legislation to protect pedestrians and cyclists.
The W.A.G.S. Wonder Run 5k
August 7, Ohio
Signing up for this 5K supports Working Animals Giving Service for Kids (W.A.G.S. 4 Kids). This organization empowers children with physical disabilities or autism by providing them with trained service dogs. Run it in historic Berea, Ohio or virtually anywhere in the world.
Donate Life Texas 2nd Chance Run
August 7, Texas
Put on by Donate Life Texas, this virtual 2nd Chance Run 5K aims to honor and raise awareness around the lives saved by organ, eye, and tissue donation. Through RunSignUp, runners can form teams and fundraise or give individual donations to the cause. There will also be a virtual donor remembrance wall as a tribute to donors.
RELATED: Get to Know the 5K, the Most Approachable Distance in Running
Race of Hope
August 8, New York
This race is going old-school as an in-person only event. But the USATF certified 5K course looks fun and fast. The race helps to fund research to “transform the way depression is viewed, diagnosed, treated, and prevented” through the Hope for Depression Research Foundation.
BRA Run Los Angeles
August 29, California
This event just keeps getting longer and that’s wonderful news. Every year the race adds an additional kilometer as the founder Evelyn Calip’s anniversary as a breast cancer survivor adds a year. 2021 marks 13K for 13 years. Proceeds from the run go to Calip’s charity, Evelyn’s BFF, to help breast cancer survivors with challenges after cancer through counseling, reconstruction, and paying off medical bills that can sometimes be in the six-figures.
Run Against ALS 5K
August 29, New Jersey
Round out your august race schedule by lacing up in person or virtually to support the Run Against ALS mission. The volunteer nonprofit aims to raise awareness and funds to support organizations that are researching ALS or providing equipment and essential items to people with ALS.