From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find virtual events and connect with the local endurance sports community.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are an oasis of cultural significance, both past and present, and are leading sources for black graduates. However, the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) are still lacking proper representation of minority groups, including women. The HBCU STEM Education Run (STEMER) is a virtual run that strives to raise funds and awareness through fitness. Each year, funds are dedicated to an HBCU. Our signature 5K supports our mission to "Educate, Empower, and Elevate HBCU STEM Students through Scholarships and Career Resources".
Race alone, with a friend, or with a team. Whether you are an HBCU alum/student, STEM graduate, or just passionate about education, this run is for you! Come join us virtually or in Huntsville, AL to support STEM education at these crucial institutions.
SCHEDULE:
7:30 AM: Onsite Packet Pickup (Please note onsite REGISTRATION ends exactly at 8:00 AM)
8:00 AM: Pre-race Welcome Program
8:30 AM: Race Start
9:45 AM (tentatively): Award Ceremony and Scholarship Presentation
Commemorative medal available as an add-on
Dogs and strollers welcome
Driving distance from:
Birmingham: 102 miles
Chattanooga: 102 miles
Nashville: 110 miles
Atlanta: 180 miles
Memphis: 212 miles
Knoxville: 218 miles
ABOUT THE EVENT
Pulse Walk: Penny Per Step Challenge is a community 5K you can complete in person in Huntsville, Alabama, or virtually from anywhere around the world. Presented by the Griffin Leukemia Foundation, Inc., this event raises awareness for leukemia and other cancers while supporting programs that help cancer survivors rebuild strength, confidence, and purpose after treatment.
Pulse Walk is a different kind of competition. It includes a non-competitive, inclusive walk designed for all ages and abilities.
This is not a timed race. Participants are encouraged to walk at their own pace and take part in whatever way is meaningful to them.
IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION
IN-PERSON 5K
Early Registration = $20
Open through August 15, 2026
Registration = $25
August 15 through September 24, 2026
In-person registration includes:
• Official Pulse Walk T-shirt (guaranteed only if registered by September 4, 2026)
• Eligibility to compete for the Top Fundraiser Super Car Ride Experience
• Access to fundraising platform 99Pledges
Participants who register after September 4, 2026 are not guaranteed a t-shirt due to production deadlines.
T-shirt sizes available: Small through XXXL. Shirts will be distributed at packet pickup or the day of the event at check-in.
Processing fees charged by RunSignUp are the responsibility of the registrant.
VIRTUAL 5K
Registration is free.
Virtual participants:
• Complete their 5K anytime between September 20 and September 26
• Create and share a fundraising page
• Are eligible to compete for the Top Fundraiser Super Car Ride Experience
Virtual participants are not eligible to receive an event T-shirt due to shipping and logistical limitations at this time.
If a virtual participant wins a Super Car Ride Experience, the ride must be redeemed in Huntsville, Alabama. Travel and lodging are not included.
HOW FUNDRAISING WORKS (PENNY PER STEP)
AFTER registering here, every participant should create a personal fundraising page at our official fundraising platform:
👉 Click the link on your confirmation screen or check your confirmation email to create your fundraising page.
Once created:
Share your fundraising page with friends, family, and coworkers.
Sponsors pledge one penny per step or make a flat donation - all donations made from your page are tracked to you.
Walk your 5K and submit your final step count at the completion of your walk.
Pledges are then processed based on your step total.
Every step turns into real support for cancer survivors.
And don't forget to tell your story along the way! (Build your following)
You will receive reminders after registration to help with each of these steps.
WHERE THE FUNDS GO (2026 BENEFICIARY)
All funds raised during the 2026 Pulse Walk will support the Cancer Climber Association (see video on SPONSORS tab). Their mission helps cancer survivors rediscover confidence and purpose through transformational challenges, including survivor-led climbs of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain.
EVENT INCENTIVES AND SWEEPSTAKES
Participant Super Car Ride Experience
Super Car Ride Experience will be awarded to a Pulse Walk participant who completes the event requirements. This experience is designed to reward participation, engagement, and commitment to the mission. Eligibility details are available on the Super Car Ride Experience page.
The Super Car Ride Experience must be redeemed in Huntsville, Alabama. Travel and lodging are not included.
Public Ultimate Super Car Ride Experience Sweepstakes
Public Super Car Ride Sweepstakes – open to the public through our official sweepstakes platform. (See Super Car Ride Experience page)
The Super Car Ride Experience must be redeemed in Huntsville, Alabama. Travel and lodging are not included.
Participant Perks
Top Fundraiser receives a Super Car Ride Experience from Smile AWhile Inc. Additional perks may be available as sponsors come on board.
NEXT STEPS AFTER REGISTRATION
After registering, check your confirmation screen and email for a link to create your personal fundraising page. Complete that step and begin sharing your story and fundraising link right away.
Every step keeps the pulse alive.
Join us for the “Project Giveback 5K "ALOHA Run” Run, Walk or Roll and Warrior Kids SuperHeroes vs Villains event. It will be held in Huntsville, Alabama on Saturday, July 26th, 2025, and we are proud to announce that "REDSTONE GATEWAY is our "TITLE SPONSOR". If you are unable to join us in person but would still like to support the cause, please consider the VIRTUAL OPTION or a donation by using the DONATE tab at the top of the page.
DISCLAIMER: We are the only race event that allows those participating to assign $10 of their REGISTRATION investment to an organization or a program that is making a positive impact in the lives of kids, domestic abuse victims, abandoned seniors, homeless veterans, or school programs (below is a list of those we are supporting in 2026).
PRICING
$30 until October 31st (T-shirts guaranteed). $35 from November 1st to May 31st (T-shirts guaranteed), $40 from June 1st to August 31st (T-shirts available as supplies last) and $45 from September 1st until Race Day (T-shirts are NOT guaranteed). NOTE: Zero Registration on event date.
PACKET PICKUP
Late Registration and Packet Pickup will be available on Friday, the day before the race, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the:
RunningLane, located at: 2407 Memorial Parkway SW, Huntsville, AL 35801, USA
Packet Pickup will also be available on race day beginning at 6:00 AM at: KBR Bldg. 6200 Redstone Gateway, Huntsville, AL US 35808, USA
Expo/Bib Pick Up
In-person participants are highly encouraged to pick up their packet at RunningLane.
Bibs, shirts, and medals for virtual participants will be shipped directly to them after September 26th, and shipping is included in the registration fee.
USA Swimming Club. Club Excellence: Bronze. 644 members.
USA Swimming Club. 28 members.