We all run for different reasons. The obvious and perhaps the most common reasons have to do with staying fit and creating a healthy balance in life.

Numerous non-profit organizations have developed training and fundraising programs around running events from the 5K to the triathlon. Go to any major marathon and you'll see hundreds of runners along the course supporting their favorite cause. All of these runners, and those associated with other programs or their own personal causes, have spent hours training and fundraising. Why do they do it?

Struggling through a training run or a race is nothing when compared to the challenges faced by those fighting illness, disease, or unemployment, violent acts of nature, political persecution, economic and social degradation, or other hardships. Running for a cause can help put things in perspective.

The rewards for those who run for a cause are priceless: new friendships, a feeling of tremendous accomplishment in helping others, the thrill of crossing the finish line, and a new attitude about running (and life).

If you are interested in running for a cause, there are many different programs from which to choose. Some options are listed below (just google them for current web url's and site info). Each program is different, but the rewards of running for a cause are undoubtedly the same. 

AIDS / HIV - List of AIDS Walks

Alzheimer's - Alzheimer's Association Memory Walk

Arthritis - Arthritis Foundation (5K and Marathon)

Asthma - American Lung Association Asthma Walk

Birth Defects - March of Dimes Walk America

Bread for the World

Cancer - American Cancer Society (Relay for Life)

The Cancer Council Australia (Relay for Life)

Canadian Cancer Society (Relay for Life)

CAPA

Diabetes - American Diabetes Association (5K)

Canadian Diabetes Association (Marathon)

Disabilities - Easter Seals Walk with Me

Down Syndrome – Step Up for Down’s Syndrome (See local events)

Drunk Driving - MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) (5K Walk)

Feeding America

Habitat for Humanity

Health Ed Connect

Heart Health - American Heart Association Heart Walk (5K)

Heifer International

Hospice - The National Hospice Foundation (Marathon or Half Marathon)

Hunger Relief - Cropwalk (Various lengths)

Kiwanis International Eliminate Project

Kidney Disease - National Kidney Foundation Kidney Walk

Liver Disease - American Liver Foundation (Boston Marathon)

Lupus - Alliance for Lupus Research (Walk-a-thon)

Multiple Sclerosis - MS Society (5K and 3 Day)

Outreach International

Orphans Africa

Pencils of Promise

Partnership for a Healthier America

Soles 4 Souls

Sustainable Hope International

Water.org

World Vision