Let's go back to April though. I wasn't quite sure what to do about April's goal of running a race for a cause since I'm out of commission as a runner. I switched it up and made the decision to volunteer for the Run Raleigh half since I couldn't run it. The race director promptly contacted me and said she could use a volunteer for packet pick-up the night before the race or giving out water at the end of the race. I preferred to be a part of the race itself, so I chose to hand out water.
There is definitely something amazing about watching all of the runners start and finish the race. It was worth the early rising on a Saturday (to not run a race). While I don't think it was the best idea to stand for 4 hours in the boot, it was a great experience watching the runners. I was amazed by some of the quick finishing times but also by those last runners who were committed to finishing. I loved congratulating and spreading cheer to the runners.
I knew I couldn't transfer my race entry, but it turns out you get a free race entry when you volunteer at one of the races in the series! Sadly the Rock N' Roll series is coming to Raleigh displacing this local, spring race. Happily, I'm going to have a second shot to run this race in October! I'm scared but excited!
I didn't end up switching May and April goals (which is good since I still can't run). This month I will be contributing to my local shelter. Raleigh has a handful of local shelters. I'll be picking one and donating some items off their wish list. Many shelters have wish lists, as well as links to directly (and easily) donate money, on their website. This is a way to give back that takes little time and little money.
Need to find a homeless shelter near you? Check out Homeless Shelter Directory, Salvation Army, or simply google homeless shelter in ________. It's that easy!
Do you plan to give back in May?
4 comments:
Volunteering for a race is an awesome experience. Now that I've actually done it, I feel like all runner should at least once!
I'm so glad you had fun at the race! And I just cleaned out my closet in April and had a swap with some girlfriends! Everything that was left over was brought to our local shelter :)
That's great that you were able to still be a part of the race, somehow. Way to go being a volunteer!
I think it's really cool that you volunteered at the race since you couldn't run. I know that had to be a little bit hard for you. It's awesome that you got to be a supporter for others, though, and see the race from a different view.
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