Since 2009, the Run to Home Base (pictured) has been a local fixture that has raised millions of dollars to help active duty military, veterans and their families in need of critical health care and mental well-being support. Gathering at Fenway Park on July 30 at 7 a.m. for the opening ceremony, participants proceed to run either a 9-kilometer course through the streets of the city or do a walk/run 5K, both of which end at home base in the historic home of the beloved Boston Red Sox. Whether running, walking or cheering on as a spectator, everyone involved is sure to have their spirits raised by the incredible sense of community engendered by this charitable event that is as needed as it ever was. 

Running—or in this case, running, swimming and biking—to raise money is also a part of the upcoming Columbia Threadneedle Investments Boston Triathlon in South Boston. On July 24, both sprint (750-meter swim/17.5K bike/5.5K run) and Olympic (1.5K swim/35K bike/10K run) versions of the three-part race take place in and around Carson Beach, with participants having the option to garner funds for official charity partner Boston Medical Center and its mission to extend quality health care to those in need. In addition, there’s a kids day planned for July 23 that includes a 100-yard fun run for ages 1–7 and “Splash & Dash” races for older kids.