Virtual running events during coronavirus pandemic

SOUTH BEND, Ind.— Many people have participated in 5 k’s, 10 k’s, or even marathons but can you say you have joined a virtual run?

With recent circumstances, virtual runs are becoming a new way to help support your mental and physical health while also supporting local organizations in a new, safe way.

“So we are all running by ourselves right now” says local runner and board member of the Center for the Homeless, Ann Amico Moran, “it allows for that connection and that feeling of giving back to something that very much needs it.”

At a time when non-profits are struggling because the community that supports them is also facing hardships, thus the virtual run was born.

“I can’t go and volunteer hands on right now” says Amico Moran, “so what can I do to feel like Im giving back, being supportive.”

For a minimum donation of $20 you can run, walk, or bike to help raise necessary funds to keep supporting our local homeless population.

“It gives somebody that goal to reach for and to reach for something in a time like now where goal setting has gone out the window and we don’t know what’s going to happen in 5 minutes or an hour or tomorrow” says Amico Moran “this is something you can control which is huge, anything we can control at this point is a blessing.”

If you are interested in signing up for the virtual race you can do so at this website.

The Center for the Homeless also has a wishlist including:

• hand sanitizer
• deodorant
• ear plugs
• size 5 diapers
• cleaning supplies
• over the counter cold medicine
• socks
• hats/gloves (mens)

which you can donate if you want to give back in a different way.

Otherwise you can go to the Center for the Homeless website for more information.