Walk, Jog, or Run : Get Movin’ for a Cause in 2010

It is still cold, I know, but we had a bit of sun today. And in a couple of weeks, it might be warm enough to start jogging again. Mind you, I don’t let Jack Frost stop me from going running. Unfortunately, workload does. But as I said, fingers crossed (and groundhog willing), it will get warmer pretty soon and then it’s time for everyone to take the sneakers/trainers out for some airing. It’s time to start training for that long walk or that run again. And as usual, I bring you a list of charity walks and runs coming up.

Race for the Cure

Race for the Cure is the signature charity run for breast cancer. Organized by the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, there are runs in different cities all over the world. I was able to take part in the Race for the Cure in Frankfurt twice way back when I was still living in Germany.  Their biggest event ever is the 3-Day for the Cure lasting for 3 days and covering 60 miles. There is also a Marathon for the Cure for the very fit among us. Check out for events in your area at ww5.komen.org/findarace.aspx?itc=lefthpban:96

Race for Life 2010

In the UK, it’s the Race for Life for the benefit of Cancer Research UK. It is a distance of 5 km and it’s for you to choose: walk, jog, or run. And don’t forget to have fun.

March of Dimes Walk America

Now this is one of my favourite events, being a mother of preemies. March of Dimes Walk America is a charity event to benefit research on premature birth. It is organized in different cities all over the US and the distances can vary so even though it’s called a walk, you can jog or run, whichever you prefer. You can even set up your own team. Check out the scheduled walk in your city at www.modimes.org/WalkAmerica

Challenge Walk MS

This is a rather long walk scheduled in September in Southern California. It lasts for 3 days and covers 50 miles from Carlsbad to San Diego. It is a personal journey of spirit and stamina, and makes an important difference in the lives of people living with multiple sclerosis. United for one cause, we will take over 100,000 steps in one of the most rewarding journeys of our lives, filled with friendship, unforgettable moments and most of all, hope. You can make it possible.  But you can participate in shorter walks from 5 km to 15 km in other parts of the US.

The MS Challenge Walk aims to raising $1.2 million for the benefit of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society towards a world free of multiple sclerosis.

American Heart Walk

The American Heart Walk is the trademark fund-raising event for the American Heart Association (AHA). It is not only a fund raising event, it also aims to promote physical activity and heart health. Check out your local heart walk even at the AHA site.

Now, big events by big charity orgs are great but small events have their advantage of being, well, smaller, more intimate, and maybe more fun. Small charity groups which cannot organize an event by themselves may participate as a small team in big racing events.

NYC 1/2 Marathon for the Fresh Air Fund

Now, here is a charity wherein New Yorkers can help fellow New Yorkers. The Fresh Air Fund invites runner to join their fund-raising team and run at the New York Half Marathon this March 21. Run, and help raise funds so that New York City children can have a great summer holiday, breathe fresh air, and commune with nature at the Fresh Air Fund summer camps.

Other site where you can look up charity walks and runs:

charitymile.com/

www.runnersweb.co.uk/indexcha.htm

www.thewalkingsite.com/events.html

Walk, Run or Cycle Charity Events: Get Movin’ for a Cause

Remember, running for a cause, big and small, keeps you fit, and makes a difference in people’s lives.