FAQ (Frequently asked Questions)
Run for LA Virtual Run - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The following are commonly asked questions by registrants. Please review before contacting us. Thank you!
1. What is the Run for LA Virtual Run?
The Run for LA Virtual Run is a nationwide virtual running event created to support victims of the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. Participants can complete a 5K run anywhere, anytime, while contributing to trusted charities. For this event, registration will be structured into waves, allowing participants to join throughout the event’s duration.
2. How does a virtual run work?
A virtual run allows participants to register, run at their convenience (location, pace, and time), and submit their results online. Our event registration is structured in waves:
Wave 1: February 1 - February 10
Wave 2: February 11 - February 28
Wave 3: March 1 - March 31
Wave 4: April 1 - April 30
Wave 5: May 1 - May 18
You may run and post your results at any time between now and May 18th. A final national results set will be published after the event concludes. (Target Date: May 18)
3. Who can participate?
Anyone! The event is open to runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Whether you're an experienced marathoner or a casual walker, you can still participate. You don’t have to be competitive—just get moving! Even taking a few steps running counts.
4. What is the registration fee?
Registration is free. However, we encourage participants to donate to one of our selected wildfire relief charities.
5. How do I register?
Simply complete the online registration form. Registration remains open throughout the event, but to be included in early digital posters and wave results, register sooner!
6. What charities does the event support?
The event supports these organizations dedicated to wildfire relief:
The American Red Cross
United Way of Greater Los Angeles
7. Can I donate to a charity that’s not on your list?
Yes! You may donate to any organization of your choice. However, to receive an official Run for LA giveaway, donations must be made through our platform. If you donate elsewhere, you can still list your charity during registration (Your message to LA question
8. How do I submit my 5K results?
You can submit and manage your own results via RunSignup:
Log into your RunSignUp Account. Scroll down to upcoming events. Select the Run for LA event and look for the "Submit Virtual Results" link to submit your results. Alternatively, you may submit by locating the Results Tab on the Registration Page you registered from. You can search for your name either by First Name and Last Name, or by your email.
Results are posted by state and wave (month end), with a final nationwide results board published in May.
9. Is the event timed?
You can self-time your 5K using a smartwatch, fitness app, or any timing method. Timing is optional, and the focus is on participation and charity support.
10. What do I get for participating?
Participants will receive:
A free downloadable digital poster/postcard featuring the names of the first 5,000 registrants (additional posters will be created if needed).
Inclusion in results.
11. Will I receive a medal or T-shirt?
To keep costs low and maximize donations, this event does not include medals or T-shirts. However, every registrant can download a custom digital keepsake poster as a thank-you.
12. How will my name appear on the digital poster?
Your last name will appear as entered during registration. Please check spelling carefully and capitalize the first letter (e.g., "Smith" instead of "smith").
13. What if I have multiple people signing up?
Each participant must register separately to ensure their name is correctly recorded.
14. What if I don’t run but want to support the cause?
You can still contribute by donating or sharing the event with friends and family. Even taking "a few steps running" can help validate your participation!
15. What happens if I register after the first 5,000 names are added to the digital poster?
Your name will appear in the next digital poster. You’ll still be part of the event and included in final results.
16. Can I participate if I live outside the USA?
Absolutely! While we’re rolling this out first in the USA, we welcome global participants who wish to support wildfire relief. Feel free to run in our CA event.
17. Can I change my registration details after signing up?
If you want to change any Race specific details, then please refer to "How do I manage my registration? "If necessary, contact the event director for critical changes. (Feb 10 -16 responses may be delayed to due staff resource constraints).
18. How do I access the interactive zip code map?
After registering, return to the registration page to view the updated interactive map. Updates will be frequently (next updates Feb 9, Feb 17 or earlier). Note: Beginning February 18, updates will be made typically within 24 hours.
19. What’s the deadline to register?
Registration remains open until May 18, 2025. However, registering earlier ensures your name is included in earlier waves and posters!
20. What if I experience technical issues during registration?
If you experience issues, please email the event director, and we’ll assist you. (Feb 10 -16 responses may be delayed to due resource constraints).
21. How can I spread the word about the event?
Share our registration website link.
Post about it on social media.
Use our QR Code (used for our LA Virtual Event) or direct them to your State’s Registration Site to make sharing even easier.
Encourage friends, family, and coworkers to join!
22. How do I contact you for additional questions?
If you still have questions, email the event director. But please check this FAQ first! 😊
