How to Walk for a Cause
Jillian Berndtson
| 3 min read
At any point in the year, you never have to search too hard to find a local fundraising walk for charity. In fact, many organizations plan multiple walks each year to support their cause.
Participating in these charity walks is a win-win. You get the health benefits of walking while also funding a great cause. Some popular annual charity walks include:
- Alzheimer’s Association’s “Walk to End Alzheimer’s”
- American Cancer Society’s “Relay for Life”
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s “Out of the Darkness” Walk
- American Heart Association’s “Heart Walk”
- Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s “One Walk”
- Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s “Light the Night” Walk
- Make a Wish’s “Walk for Wishes”
- Michigan Parkinson Foundation’s “I Gave My Sole for Parkinson’s” Walks
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s “Walk MS” events
If you’re looking to get more involved in a particular cause or if you’re hoping to start a charity walk of your own, you may want to consider these tips.
- Make it a party. If you are hosting a walk of your own, start the fundraising with a kickoff party. Here you can set any goals for the walk and work out any of the outstanding details. If you are participating in a walk, attend any meetings taking place beforehand.
- Take small steps. Don’t overdo the fundraising in the first week. Spread out your work so friends and family can see it over time and so you manage your own time properly.
- Get connected. Find someone with a personal connection to the cause if you don’t have one yourself. Chances are after hearing someone else’s story, you’ll be inspired to go the extra mile for the cause.
- Invite friends. You’re more likely to stick to a goal if you have someone to hold you accountable. Get some of your loved ones to join you for the fun.
If it’s your first time participating in a charity walk, you should do some training ahead of time. It is best to start several weeks in advance or earlier if you don’t typically exercise. A good starting point is a 15-minute walk. As you progress in your training, increase the time gradually.
It’s extremely important that you wear comfortable, supportive shoes both during training and on the day of the walk. Walking or running long distances in ill-fitting shoes can wreak havoc on your body. Invest in the proper pair so you can enjoy the experience. You should also plan your outfit appropriately for the weather. You don’t want to be too hot or too cold, but keep in mind you’ll likely warm up a bit once you start walking. Dressing in layers is a good idea.
You should also stay hydrated and energized. This means drinking plenty of water and eating a well-balanced diet before, during and after your walk.
Now you’re ready to cross the starting line! What’s your favorite charity walk to participate in?
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Photo credit: SDI Productions
