You probably pound the pavement multiple times a week preparing for your next race. But what about those who don't have the luxury of running, walking or even getting out of bed by themselves?
These challenges are a reality for more than 44,000 American veterans living with a spinal cord injury or disease, who were injured after putting their lives on the line to protect our freedom as Americans. For able-bodied endurance athletes, however, there is a new way to give back to them.
In June of 2015, the Paralyzed Veterans of America introduced REVolution, a new fundraising program that allows endurance and multisport athletes to give back to the thousands of paralyzed United States veterans. Al Kovach Jr., the national president of Paralyzed Veterans of America, U.S. Navy SEAL, former Paralympian and two-time winner of the Los Angeles Marathon, was instrumental in building the charitable program.
Runners who join the REVolution are guaranteed entry into one of the organization's two sponsored events: the Air Force Marathon Sept. 19, 2015, or the Marine Corps Marathon Oct. 25, 2015.
The registration fee for each person goes toward the minimum amount required to fundraise, $500.
More: The Beginner's Guide to Starting a Running Program
Once runners register, an online profile is created to share each person's stories, motivations and reasons why they decided to get involved. Participants can share and promote their profiles across social media and other various channels, encouraging family, friends, friends of friends and even strangers to donate to the cause.
With the program aiming to raise $40,000 through the Air Force and Marine Corps marathons, REVolution invites runners of all shapes, sizes and abilities to participate. Registered runners are also given access to marathon training plans and certified coaches, providing all the necessary tools you need to cross the finish line, regardless of your marathon experience.
Not quite in marathon shape? REVolution also offers a Virtual Runner option, where a participant can fundraise through the program without running 26.2 miles. REVolution still encourages Virtual Runners to get involved on race day through volunteering and interfacing with runners and patrons before, during and after the race.
Register for the REVolution: Air Force Marathon.
Register for the REVolution: Marine Corps Marathon.
Learn more about the Paralyzed Veterans of America at pva.org.
More: How to Go From Zero to Marathon in Six Months
Find your next race.
