Run or walk with a purpose.

This Saturday, I am participating in the 26th Annual Sickle Cell Road Race and Walk. This is an annual fundraiser for the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia and is a wonderful race on a beautiful course. This will be my third year running it (or is it my fourth?) and it's always a fun and useful way to spend a Saturday morning. Not only do I get exercise which improves my health, but my registration fee funds services that improve the health of the thousands of people in Georgia with sickle cell anemia.

Consider participating in a run or walk for a health oriented charity. Here are some ways to find an event in your area:

* There are over 75 AIDS Walks held all over the country. These walks benefit HIV/AIDS service organizations in the local area. See if there's an AIDS walk near you!

* Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training "is the world's largest endurance sports training program. The program provides training to run or walk a whole or half marathon or participate in a triathlon or century (100-mile) bike ride." These events raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. You may be surprised to learn that many of the volunteers have never participated in an endurance race before. Maybe you'll be next!

* The Komen Foundation hosts a large series of events that raise money for breast cancer research and prevention. They include 112 5K (3.1 miles) races/walks and several 60 mile 3-Day walks.

* Click here to find a list of races and walks in your area. Many of these are held to benefit health-related or other charities.

Check out the February 3rd post for some more ways to walk with a purpose. Also, local hospitals and other organizations may also host walks or runs you can participate in. They're a great way to get the exercise you need and help someone else at the same time. Have fun! And Nana, Eron, Temika, Dorian, and Kwadjo, I'll see y'all at the race!