Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2025 race weekend? Saturday, May 31st, 2025 (Note: This is NOT Memorial Day Weekend)

What is included in my entry fee?

• Walkers receive one t-shirt, access to the 1-mile walking course, and all-day admission to the zoo once the event ends

• Cheerleaders receive one t-shirt and all-day admission to the zoo once the event ends

• Runners receive an RFID chip timer, a race bib, one t-shirt, access to the 5K running course, and all-day admission to the zoo once the event ends

I am registering for my family of 4. Is there a discount? There is a discount for a group of four registrants. This discount is only for four walkers and cannot be used for runners. The discount is $10 and will show up once you add four registrants and select “multi-person pricing.”

Are strollers or baby joggers allowed on the course? Yes. We ask that those with strollers or baby joggers begin their race or walk at the back of the group and remain on the right side of the path to allow others safe access to the course.

I am a Fundraising Team Captain. Can I check in for my team on the morning of the event? No, all event participants, regardless of team involvement, must check in personally in the walker check-in area or the runner check-in area. We encourage teams to meet up after check-in to enjoy a huddle before hitting the starting line! Don’t forget to snap photos or ask our photographers to capture your group!

Why do I need to create a RunSignUp Account? Hunger Network changed our race and event management platforms in 2025 to improve the overall event experience. If you do not already have a RunSignUp Account, you’ll be asked to create one during the registration process. This account will allow you to access your registration information in the future. 

Why was there a sales tax on my registration transaction? Isn’t this purchase tax-exempt, as it is going to a 501c3 organization? Your registration fee is not subject to sales tax. However, in the state of Ohio, transaction fees are subject to a small sales tax. The RunSignUp platform is very affordable for nonprofits because it does not charge us using long-term contracts. Transaction fees are allowing Hunger Network to access the platform at no additional cost.

I want to join a Fundraising Team. How do I do it? During the registration process, you will be prompted to create an individual fundraising page, and then you can select an existing team or toggle the slider to create a new one. To create a fundraising team, you MUST set up your fundraiser. To complete this step, CLICK HERE!

I can't make the event, but I paid for registration. What is your Refund Policy? As a nonprofit organization, all proceeds from this event directly support our mission to feed our communities' future. Please note that all ticket sales and donations are final and non-refundable. This policy applies regardless of personal circumstances, including but not limited to scheduling conflicts, weather conditions, or travel issues. We appreciate your understanding and support. Your contribution helps us continue our work and make a meaningful impact in the community. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at help@hungernetwork.org. Thank you for supporting Hunger Network and participating in our event, Walk for Hunger & 5K Run.

I already registered for Walk for Hunger, but I don’t know if I am on a Fundraising Team. To see active fundraising teams and team members, CLICK HERE! If you do not see yourself, follow the directions for the previous question.

Does my registration fee count towards my fundraising team’s total? Yes, if you have completed your registration and joined a team, the total amount of your registration fee is credited to your team, which helps your team reach its goal!

I want to share my fundraiser on Facebook. How can I do this so all donations count? Your individual or team fundraiser can seamlessly integrate into Facebook fundraiser features. To access step-by-step instructions, CLICK HERE!

T-Shirt Threshold: We cannot guarantee t-shirts to participants who registered after May 7th or the availability of extra t-shirts. This year, we were excited to offer t-shirts to all registration levels who signed up before our extended cutoff date of May 7th. Participants who have a t-shirt size indicated on their registration can expect to be given their t-shirt during check-in, while supplies last.

Early T-Shirt Pick Up: Eligible participants may pick up their t-shirts at Hunger Network's office on Thursday, May 29th, from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm. Early pick-up is optional and only available on this date and time. Address: 4415 Euclid Avenue, Suite 110, Cleveland, OH 44103

Check In: All participants must check in personally. Team Captains are not permitted to check in on behalf of their fundraising team. Check-in begins at 7:15 am. We encourage teams to meet up after check-in to huddle before hitting the starting line. Don’t forget to snap photos or ask our photographers to capture your group!

Day of Registration: Online registration will CLOSE at 9:00 am on Friday, May 30th. Folks who did not register online may do so in person on event day in the day-of-registration line at check-in. 

Participant/Volunteer Check In: Registered participants who are also volunteering should first check in at the Ticket Plaza to receive their bibs and information, and then visit the Volunteer check-in table to the left of the Ticket Plaza. Volunteers who are not walking or running may report directly to the volunteer check-in table. Volunteers may contact kelly@hungernetwork.org with any questions.

Parking: Event participants may park in the Stork, Otter, Tiger, and Bear public parking lots. Hunger Network staff, volunteers, and participants with accessibility needs should park in the Lion Lot located near the Ticket Plaza.

Weather: The 37th Annual Walk for Hunger & 5K Run is a rain or shine event. Please check the forecast and dress accordingly to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. The covered shelter is available beneath the Palava Hut Pavilion before and after you hit the route. Think Sunny Thoughts! 

Zoo Beautification: The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is undergoing construction to maintain its facilities. Some areas may be unavailable. We do not expect construction to impact our festivities. However, additional signage and route information will be displayed to assist guests.

Accessibility: The Lion Lot is in close proximity to the Ticket Plaza and is available for guests with accessibility needs. Be sure to have a visible placard posted on your windshield. Accessible parking spaces are visually identified. More parking is available in the Stork, Otter, Tiger, and Bear public parking lots.

Hydrate & Energize: Light snacks and water will be available in the Palava Hut Pavilion. Thank you to our partners for providing energizing snacks: Cleveland Water, Costco Wholesale, Distillata Water, Giant Eagle, Marc's, and Whole Foods Market.