8 Charity Runs to Register for This July

charity runs: Strike Out ALS 5k and 1 Mile Run, Walk & Roll

One thing active Chicagoans love about our far-too-short warm weather season is that it’s finally time to take that workout outside. Whether that means training intensely for a marathon or simply walking around the block for a breath of fresh air, it’s the perfect time to start pounding the pavement.

Need some extra motivation? Run or walk for a cause. In July, there are several opportunities to participate in races that give back to the community. Anyone is welcome to sign up, and you are free to move at your own pace. Not only is running (or walking) beneficial for your own health and fitness, but taking part in any of these charity runs is also an effective way to raise awareness for and support worthy causes.

And, for some extra help with your race prep, here’s our guide to training for a 5K. Happy racing!

Expanding Lives 5K

July 7, 2018
8 a.m., Northfield, Illinois

charity runs: Expanding Lives 5K

Your participation in this 5K benefits the Chicago-based nonprofit Expanding Lives. The organization supports many young women in West Africa, providing them with education and leadership opportunities.

Mary E. Smith Foundation Brain Tumor Awareness 5K Fun Run/Walk

July 7, 2018
8 a.m., Country Club Hills, Illinois

charity runs: Mary E. Smith Foundation Brain Tumor Awareness 5K Fun Run/Walk

Ten percent of proceeds from this race go to the National Brain Tumor Society. Last year, it raised over $3,000 for brain tumor awareness, fueling research and scholarship programs. Want to beat that this year? Register for the fun run or the walk.

Answers for Angels 5K

July 8, 2018
8 a.m., Tinley Park, Illinois

charity runs: Answers for Angels 5K

Answers for Angels uses their resources to support those with cancer, offering affected families both financial and moral guidance. After the race, participants are invited to stay for music, raffle baskets, and food.

5K RUN! To End Homelessness

July 14, 2018
8:30 a.m., Chicago

charity runs: 5K RUN! To End Homelessness

Proceeds from this 5K go to the Safe Haven Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that helps homeless people transform their lives with dignity. By participating, you can support a cause that helps empower those in need.

Strike Out ALS 5K and 1-Mile Run, Walk & Roll

July 17, 2018
6:45 p.m. (5K) or 7 p.m. (mile), Guaranteed Rate Field, Chicago

For all avid baseball lovers, this race features a 5K run and a mile run, both starting at home plate of Guaranteed Rate Field. Proceeds go to the Les Turner ALS Foundation. Afterward, runners can relax at the ChiSox Bar & Grill and watch the MLB All-Star Game.

Venus de Miles Women’s 5K

July 21, 2018
8:30 a.m., Lake Forest, Illinois

charity runs: Venus de Miles Women’s 5K

In addition to 25-mile and 60-mile bike rides, register for the 5K run/walk coordinated by Greenhouse Scholars, an organization that offers both financial and moral support to college students who have the ambition but not necessarily the resources needed to succeed. Following the race, there is a festival that will feature a complimentary lunch, cocktails, and spa services.

Run for Gus 5K Run / 1-Mile Walk

July 26, 2018
7 p.m., Diversey Harbor, Illinois

By taking part in this race, you can join the fight of thousands of kids against brain tumors. Your support will help to further pediatric brain tumor research and treatment at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

5th Annual Illinois Sepsis Challenge 5K

July 28, 2018
9 a.m., Centennial Park in Orland Park, Illinois

The goal for this race is to raise awareness for sepsis, a life-threatening disease. Sign up today and advocate for the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans who suffer from this condition.

 

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