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Suicide Awareness Run/Walk

September 6–12, 2026 is National Suicide Prevention Week — a time dedicated to bringing a difficult but vital conversation into the light. Suicide remains one of the leading causes of preventable death in our country and the 2nd leading cause of death among youth ages 10–24. By participating in this virtual race, you’re doing more than logging miles — you’re helping break stigma, spark conversation, and show that no one has to struggle alone.

This is a fully virtual event, which means you can complete your 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon from anywhere, at any pace, and on your own schedule during race week. Walk your neighborhood, run your favorite trail, use a treadmill, or gather friends and family for a meaningful group effort.

However you choose to move, every step helps raise awareness and support a cause that impacts millions of lives. Whether you participate in honor of someone, in memory of a loved one, or simply to stand in support of mental health awareness, your participation matters. Together, even from miles apart, we can make a powerful impact.

Participate In Memory, or In Support

Many participants choose to dedicate their miles to someone special. You may be walking in memory of a loved one, running in honor of someone’s journey, or participating to show your support for mental health awareness.Consider sharing a photo and story, or taking a quiet moment of reflection during your race. These personal tributes are a powerful way to turn movement into meaning and help keep important conversations going.

If you feel comfortable, we encourage you to share your “why” with our community during race week. Your story may be the encouragement someone else needs to feel less alone.However you choose to participate, know that your steps are part of something bigger — a collective effort to bring visibility, compassion, and hope to those impacted by suicide and mental health challenges.

HOW TO COMPLETE YOUR VIRTUAL RUN

  • Register for the race and print your bib (optional)
  • Complete your distance any time, anywhere during the dates of the race
  • Submit your time to see how you placed overall and receive your finisher certificate
  • Your race medal is shipped directly to you
  • Join the Virtual Runs for a Purpose Facebook Group to share and celebrate with other participants

REGISTRATION INCLUDES

  • Race Medal
  • Printable Race Bib
  • Printable Finisher Certificate

HOW TO CREATE A TEAM

  • Only 1 person needs to create a team name during registration
  • Share your team name so others can join when they go to register

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I print my race bib?

You can print your race bib from your profile page. After registering, log in, find your event, and click “View Digital Bib” to download and print it.

How do I download or print my finisher certificate?

You can download and print your finisher certificate after submitting your race time. Once your time is submitted, the certificate will be available in your profile.

Do I need to submit my time to receive race swag?

No, you do not need to submit your time to receive race swag. Time submission is optional.

What app should I use to track my race time?

You can use any running or fitness tracking app to record your race time. Popular options include Strava, Nike Run Club, and Apple Fitness. Here is a list of the top 10 apps. You can also use a stopwatch if you prefer.

Do team members have to complete the race together?

No, team members do not need to complete the race together. Each participant can run or walk at their own pace and on their own schedule.

Do all team members have to complete the same distance?

No, team members do not have to complete the same distance. Each participant can choose their own distance.

When will I receive my race medal?

Race medals begin shipping 1 month before the race starts, through the end of the race.

What Participants Receive

Optional Race Shirts