5 Reasons to Register for the Hunger Run

The 3^rd Annual Hunger Run is set for Saturday, April 7 at 9 a.m. starting in Plante’s Ferry Park. There will be 5k and 10k options for both runners and walkers. We’d love to have you join us. Toward that end, here are five solid reasons to sign up today.

#1: It’s fun.

Hunger and homelessness are pretty weighty subjects, so it’s nice when you can impact both and have fun at the same time. While we certainly welcome and seek to accommodate serious runners, we also welcome walkers, families and strollers. This is an event for everyone.

There will be a DJ at the starting line with energizing music from Key 101 FM and 93.7 the Mountain and plenty of healthy snacks at the end from presenting sponsors Safeway/Albertsons. Last year, we saw runners in rainbow-colored tutus and other fun attire. Volunteers from local track and field teams cheered runners from the sidelines, and there will be certificates for winners in the various age categories.

#2. Celebrate collaboration.

It’s all too easy for nonprofit organizations to isolate into silos, raising funds for their own operating budgets and failing to work hand in hand with other local organizations serving the same population. The Hunger Run is one way that UGM and Second Harvest are seeking to combat that tendency.

 “The issue of hunger is important, not only for Second Harvest and UGM, but for the entire Inland Northwest community,” says Wil Wilhelm, UGM Director of Development. “People count on organizations that have similar goals and objectives to work together. That’s why UGM and Second Harvest are teaming up in this endeavor to address hunger and promote awareness of its impact in our communities.”

#3. Get active.

Most of us could benefit from being more active. According to stateofobesity.org, Washington ranks 32^nd in the country for obesity rates. That doesn’t sound too bad until you consider that more than a quarter of us qualify as obese.

“Being active increases energy and happiness and can prevent chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer, which are the top two leading causes of death in Spokane County,” according to the Spokane Regional Health District.

The Hunger Run could even be the start of something. Coming a month before Bloomsday, you could use it as preparation for the big Spokane event.

#4. Embrace the beauty of the Inland Northwest.

The Hunger Run route follows the Centennial Trail right along the Spokane River. Unlike last year, we’re expecting the trail to be free of flooding, and the long-term weather forecast indicates the temperature will be in the low 50s. But no matter what the weather brings, you’ll be surrounded by ponderosa pines and great views of the river – way better than anything you could experience from your couch.

#5. Each registration provides 70+ meals.

According to Feeding America, Spokane County ranks higher than Washington state as a whole (15.5% vs. 12.8%) and the nation (13.4%) in the percentage of individuals experiencing food insecurity.

For every dollar donated to Second Harvest, they are able to provide the food to prepare 5 meals. UGM serves prepared meals at a cost of $1.84 per meal. Averaging the two, every Hunger Run registration provides a minimum of 70 meals.

Second Harvest and UGM have been partnering to provide food to hungry and homeless individuals and families for a long time. The Hunger Run is one more expression of that collaboration.

“UGM and Second Harvest partner to have direct impact on hunger relief,” said Shawn Lepisi, Director of Donor Relations for Second Harvest. “We provide food at no cost to UGM, which allows the Mission to provide healthy and nutritious meals to the homeless as well as individuals and families who face real challenges in our community. Food is one of the most basic needs and we partner with organizations like UGM to ensure that food is being provided to our neighbors in need.”

It’s easy to register for the Hunger Run! If you do it by March 15, you’ll get a stylish T-shirt on race day. Don’t delay!