What can you expect to receive from your chosen charity in return for running for them? Here's the lowdown on what you can typically expect as a charity runner.

What the runner can expect to receive from their charity will be largely the same regardless of whether they have their own place in the event or have committed to raise a target amount for that charity in return for being granted a place. Charities want their runners to succeed and therefore most offer a decent support package intended to assist throughout the fundraising and training process.

A typical charity package offered to runners could include any of the following:

  • Fundraising pack including vital information and fundraising tips

  • Expert week-by-week training plan

  • Running vest or t-shirt with charity logo

  • Regular newsletter updates

  • Runner goody bag

  • Access to a local charity campaigners

  • Assistance with setting up online fundraising to help you reach your target

  • Online discussion group and support

  • Pasta or other 'carbo-load' party the day before the race

  • Cheering squads at key stages around the race course

  • Post-marathon reception (where you can meet up with family), including complimentary sports massage

How to choose a charity

Each of the charities vary in size and resources, so the charity package varies accordingly. But what you receive in return for running should not really make a massive difference to the choice you make of who to run for. Many considerations can affect your choice of charity, although if you have no real preference, you might want to think whether you prefer to be part of a small team of runners or a large one.

What is guaranteed is that whatever charity you opt to run for, they will support you throughout the whole experience. After all, they want to make sure you make it to the start and finish line so that they can get the most income possible from their runners. Plus your race distance won't change their level of support, whether you are doing a 5k or a marathon or maybe even further.

Find a charity to support by checking out the list of charities that have guaranteed places  in a number of different events or click on the image below.

Run for charity listings

Picture Credit: Ms Jane Campbell / Shutterstock.com