Races and walking events are excellent ways for non-profit charitable entities to raise funds. Charity events like a 5k are popular because the distance is feasible for both runners and non-runners, so it's easy to include walkers. The distance also allows for a lot of diversity in who can participate.

Your objective is raise funds for your organization while providing a fun event for the community. The course and central location are logistically important to the planning, but they also can be vital tools to help advertise your run.

Terrain

If you're planning a 5k for charity, your main objective shouldn't be to provide a difficult course that challenges even the most ardent runner. A charity run must allow for a diverse type of runner and walker. Children and families can participate, so it has the potential to be a family event.

If you map out a course that is too difficult, you stand the chance of limiting the market audience. Keep it simple, keep it safe, and make it a fun course for all ages and levels of interest. If the course is suitable for anyone, you will be able to advertise your event to anyone.

Route

The route you decide on is part of the logistical side of your race. However, routes that offer a lot of exposure can increase your advertising options. If you pick a route that flows through an unpopulated area, you remove that as a potential advertising tool.

Your first objective must be the safety of the participants, but a course that runs through a heavily visible part of the community is like free advertising from every participant in the race. Calculate the route for your 5k charity run with the goal of exposing your event to both participants, spectators, and even passersby.

Central Registration Location

Try to establish a main location with visible marketing possibilities. Some venues will allow you to advertise your 5k charity race weeks ahead of time. While it cannot always be accomplished logistically, it is great when the starting line and finish line are both at this central location.

You need to work with local authorities to finalize any decision. However, if you focus on a central location with high visibility, you give yourself another form of free advertisement.

Beyond generating money for a worthy humanitarian cause, 5k charity runs are a great way to promote your organization to the public. Pick your course and central location with your target audience in mind.

Also, try to incorporate these three aspects of your race into your advertising plan. If you do, you may find your fundraising 5k event both meets your financial goal and generates valuable exposure for your charity. For more information, work with organizers like gotCUREage.