10 fall races to run in Philadelphia for a good cause
Run a race and help others? It’s a win-win scenario. Here’s 10 races for every weekend through November, all of which benefit a charity or organization trying to make a difference.
Fall is the unofficial start to the racing calendar and I'm sure many of you are lacing up your sneaks and training for Philly's big marathon weekends. In the midst of logging all of those miles, why not switch up your routine and consider joining a smaller race for a good cause? Yep, that's right — you can run a race and help others. (It's a win-win!)
From supporting childhood cancer research to helping shelter dogs find a home — here are 10 local races that benefit a charity or organization trying to make a difference.
September
12th Annual Red Cross Run to Save Lives 5K
Each year, the American Red Cross responds nationwide to 70,000 disasters, more than 700 of them right here in your local community. The annual 5K Walk and Run raises funds for programs and services to help you, your family, and your neighbors prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.
Saturday, September 20, 8:30 a.m. at the Philadelphia Zoo.
The Four Seasons parkway 5K benefits pediatric cancer research and survivorship programs at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Last year over 10,000 participants, donors and sponsors raised more than $1 million.
Sunday, September 28, 8:30 a.m. at One Logan Square.
The Rescue Run 5K is Philly's first race to benefit and promote rescue and adoption. Proceeds from his 5K go to continuing the mission of The Monster Milers, Philly's shelter dog running 501c3 non-profit volunteer group. Bonus: A bunch of rescue groups and shelters attend the post-race Rescue Rally with their favorite furry friends.
Sunday, September 28, 10 a.m. at the Navy Yard.
October
It is estimated that 40,000 individuals in Philadelphia Tri-State region have lupus. Proceeds from the Lupus Loop 5K run and 2.5-mile walk benefit local research, support programs and services, education and advocacy for our local chapter of the Lupus Foundation of America. Bonus: Donate or fundraise over $100 and your registration fee is waived.
Sunday, October 26, 9 a.m. at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park.
Since 2004, WXPN Musicians On Call has delivered the healing power of music to more than 50,000 patients and their families in the Delaware Valley. all proceeds from the annual 5K race will benefit the program. Bonus: You can rock out while you run thanks to volunteer musicians from the program that will perform along the course on race day.
Sunday, October 5, 8:30 a.m. at Penn Park.
Miles for Migraines 5K and 10K
The Miles for Migraine 5K, 10K and 2-Mile walk is the only migraine-related run in the United States and this year, they're coming to Philly. Proceeds will go towards implementing new programs such as a day camp for adolescents suffering from chronic migraines, and an adult seminar series.
Saturday, October 11, 8 a.m. at Forbidden Drive in Fairmount Park.
Handbags 4 Peace is a local organization aimed at making the city a safer and better place to live, particularly for women and children. Powered by Black Girls Run!, proceeds from the first annual 5K will help generate funds for a Handbags 4 Peace Reward Fund, which will be distributed to tips that lead to the arrest and prosecution of crimes committed against a woman.
Saturday, October 18 at 907 N. Front Street.
Fans are encouraged to wear their favorite Halloween costumes or Flyers gear and join this 5K to benefit Flyers Charities, a division of Comcast-Spectacor Charities, to help support local non-profit organizations in the Greater Philadelphia Region. Bonus: The event will feature a Family Fun Area with inflatables, face painters and pumpkin painting.
Saturday, October 25, 9 a.m. at Wells Fargo Center.
November
Free to Breathe is a partnership of lung cancer survivors, advocates, researchers, healthcare professionals and industry leaders aiming to increase the lung cancer survival rate. By participating and choosing to fundraise for the annual 5K, you're helping to raise awareness and fund vital research programs dedicated to doubling lung cancer survival by 2022.
Sunday, November 2, 8 a.m. at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park.
Join families, businesses and individuals who all want to support the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation in their quest to find better treatments and cures for all kids with cancer. Bonus: Get inspired by childhood cancer heroes and their families who will participate in a mini version of the run/walk before you hit the starting line.
Sunday, November 9, 8 a.m. at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park.
Read more Sports Doc for Sports Medicine and Fitness.