As the weather starts to become warmer and sunnier with each passing day, we’re reminded that charity can take place outside just as much as in. Nowadays, charity events involve being active and physical, and encourage participants to get competitive and have fun while raising money for worthy causes. Various organized charity races have become the most popular way for people to give back. Here are a handful of the most popular races out there right now:
The Color Run
The Color Run has quickly become one of the most popular races to participate in, likely due to the fact that it’s considered “the happiest 5K on the planet.” Created only a couple of years ago in 2012, The Color Run hosted more than 170 events in 30 countries in 2013 alone. Race organizers are all about giving back, which means that each race generates funds for great causes. To date, $3 million has been donated to causes such as Global Citizen, the Boys & Girls Clubs, the Cool Kids Campaign, and many more.
Tough Mudder
Tough Mudder isn’t your average race, rather, it’s a 10-12 mile obstacle course challenge, where you can expect to have to get down and dirty in order to make it to the finish line. To date, Tough Mudder participants have raised more than $6 million for the Wounded Warrior Project, just one charity that benefits from the obstacle course competitors. A fun, challenging race that also supports incredible causes? What’s not to like?
Wounded Warrior Project 8K Runs
This race is only held in Tennessee, Florida, and Texas each year, but funds go towards the Wounded Warrior Project’s efforts to support those affected by 9/11. According to Women’s Health Magazine, “Before each race, guests perform the National Anthem and a Wounded Warrior tells his or her story,” making for a very intimate, patriotic race. This race is particularly great for anyone who is currently serving in the military, as it tends to attract many active duty military men and women.
Boston, Chicago, and NYC Marathons
Running a marathon is no easy feat, but if this is more your style, head to a nearby city and register to run! Not only will you get the chance to be part of something epic and widely attended, you’ll be raising vital funds for incredible causes. According to Runner’s World, the Chicago Marathon alone “boasts 190 charity partners, a record it reached last year.” The Boston Marathon and NYC Marathon are very similar, particularly because they are such renowned races, and have raised huge sums of money to benefit charities from across the country.
What are your favorite charity runs?