
Virtual walks and runs were gaining popularity before the COVID-19 pandemic. Many organizations were using these types of events to raise money. For example, virtual Strides raised over $82,000 for charitable causes in 2015.
Now that large gatherings are unsafe because of the Coronavirus, many popular runs and walks are going virtual and people are flocking to them in the absence of in-person races. Even the famed IRONMAN triathlon series is offering virtual races and attracting tens of thousands of participants each week during the Coronavirus pandemic. They’re also raising money for their "Ironman Foundation" which provides relief aid worldwide.
Virtual charity runs and walks start on the internet but take place wherever participants want to complete the distance. People who sign up for virtual charity runs and walks register online and complete the mileage at their own convenience and wherever they live. Once they finish the "race," participants upload their results online.
There are many benefits to hosting a virtual run/walk, and they’re relatively easy to organize. Even small nonprofits can put on a successful virtual charity walk with the right preparation! We gathered some of the best tips, tricks, and resources to help you organize your first charity run/walk to raise money for your organization.