9 running, walking, and fun run events in Norfolk, Virginia

Join us on Old Dominion University’s campus for the Pike Run for Rescue 5K, hosted by the Zeta Iota Chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha in support of VB Rescue. This community-focused event brings together students, alumni, families, and local supporters for a morning of fitness and giving back.

The race will wind through ODU’s campus and feature more than just a run; stick around for Touch-A-Truck experiences with emergency vehicles and raffles with exciting prizes for participants and spectators. Whether you’re racing for time, jogging with friends, or walking to support the cause, there’s something for everyone.

All proceeds directly benefit VB Rescue and help support the lifesaving work of our local first responders. Come out, have fun, and run with purpose!

Race Details

Location: Benchtop Brewing Company (1129 Boissevain Ave. Norfolk, VA 23507)

Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026

Time: 8:30am - 12:00pm

Description

This movement was founded by Emily Sheetz, a third-year medical student at Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), whose passion for mental health advocacy stems from a deeply personal place. In 2012, Emily lost her sister, Courtney, to suicide.

Courtney struggled with self-harm and eating disorders for many years, and despite her family's best efforts to support her, they couldn't find a way to help. For a long time after her death, Emily and her family struggled to talk about what happened, as the stigma surrounding mental health prevented her from sharing the impact it had on her family. Now Emily shares her story without the fear of being judged or looked down upon. Losing her sister to suicide is a part of her — one she no longer carries with shame or guilt. Emily is now using her voice to show others it is okay to speak out and ask for help. No one should — or deserves to — struggle in silence.

This event is more than just a fundraiser; it’s an opportunity to bring our community together and show that we are not alone in our struggles. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and by participating, we can help break the silence and show others that hope and healing are possible.

The 3rd Annual Don’t Struggle In Silence 5K will take place on April 11th, 2026 starting at Benchtop Brewing Company and running along the scenic Elizabeth River Trail.

Participants will receive a finisher medal, and those who register by March 20, 2026, are guaranteed a T-shirt.

After the race, we invite you to join us at Benchtop Brewing Company for an after-party, where you can enjoy a drink, connect with others, and grab some food from local vendors.

Let's come together for a meaningful cause and support our community. Together, we can ensure no one has to struggle in silence.

Race Contact Info

If you have any questions about this race, click the button below or contact us on Instagram at @dontstruggleinsilence5k

The race is FREE for all runners!

This race will also be a chip-timed Race!

Start time is 1130am

Pre-Registration and Same Day Registration starts at 10am

Open to all active duty military, Retirees, Reservists, Dependents and DOD Civilians. There will be an after race party with food and live music by DJ “E”. Awards will be given out to the overall first male and first female finisher and for the first place male and female age group winners. For any questions, please call 757-836-1812.

The Norfolk State University Foundation, Inc. is thrilled to present the annual Green & Gold 5k and Kids Fun Run, coupled with a Health and Wellness Expo, on Saturday, April 18, 2026, on the Norfolk State University campus at Dick Price Stadium. This year marks the 5th anniversary of this exhilarating event, featuring several exciting new elements: a professionally timed run/walk with RFID bib tracking starting and finishing within the stadium, a revamped course that winds through the heart of the campus, a kids fun run, participant awards, as well as brand-new race swag and a finisher medal!

The day will kick off with an invigorating warm-up session leading into the 5K at 9 a.m. The Kids Fun Run, open to children aged 2-12 (onsite sign-up required), will take place on the stadium track at 11 a.m. The Health and Wellness Expo will offer blood pressure and health screenings, along with information and demonstrations from local wellness vendors and organizations, benefiting participants, spectators, and the local community alike.

Rally your team and don your most spirited Green & Gold gear as this event is more than just a run—it’s an opportunity to make a significant impact by raising funds for student success and promoting health awareness. Whether you're cheering from the sidelines, walking, jogging, or running, every step you take helps empower education and build brighter futures.

Join us for the inaugural NSUF Green & Gold KIDS FUN RUN!

The Norfolk State University Foundation, Inc will host this event on the campus of Norfolk State University at Dick Price Stadium in conjunction with our fifth annual 5k Run/Walk fundraiser. Bring out your kids to share in the fun while encouraging movement and exercise and promote healthy behaviors in our youth.

The morning starts at 9 a.m. with the 5k Run/Walk and Health and Wellness Expo* and the KIDS FUN RUN will kick off at 11 a.m..

AGES: 2 - 12 years old

DISTANCE: 100 meters on the Dick Price Stadium track

COST: Registration is FREE

LOCATION: Norfolk State University

Music, fun, freebies and healthy snacks provided.

Come dressed in your favorite GREEN/GOLD gear!

*The Health and Wellness Expo will include local and national vendors to provide health information regarding exercise, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and sickle cell. The NSU Nursing Department will be onsite performing blood pressure screenings.

About the Event

Step Up & Step Out is more than a race—it’s a movement. Join us for The Up Center’s annual fundraising event as we climb, run, and walk together to strengthen families, protect children, and empower individuals across Hampton Roads. Whether you’re taking on the stair climb challenge inside Harbor Park or hitting the course for the 2-mile run/walk, you’ll be part of something bigger: hope, healing, and community.

Event Highlights

• Two Events, One Cause: Choose between the stair climb challenge or the 2 mile run/walk.

• Family-Friendly: Runners, walkers, strollers, and all fitness levels welcome.

• Community Impact: Every step you take helps The Up Center provide life-changing services—from foster care and adoption to mental health counseling, housing support, and youth mentoring.

• Harbor Park Experience: Enjoy a unique race day setting with scenic views of the Elizabeth River and the excitement of Harbor Park.

• Celebrate Together: Post-race celebration with music, refreshments, and recognition of top fundraisers and finishers.

Why We Step Up

For more than 140 years, The Up Center has been the place our community turns to in times of need. By registering, fundraising, or sponsoring, you help provide critical resources that keep children safe, families strong, and individuals moving forward.

How to Get Involved

• Register: Sign up as an individual or form a team with friends, coworkers, or family.

• Fundraise: Use your personal fundraising page to make an even bigger impact.

• Sponsor or Volunteer: Local businesses and community members are invited to partner with us.

Step up. Step out. Make a difference.