About the Race Against Gun Violence

We believe all of Chicagoland has a stake in ending gun violence and that by working together, we can build a Chicago where all can thrive, free from the fear of gun violence.

RAGV is the rallying point to raise funds for and awareness about what is being done to end gun violence and provide an opportunity for everyone to get involved. More than a single event, the Race Against Gun Violence (RAGV) is a dynamic platform to support and celebrate community organizations working to build peace and bring out the best of our city. This year’s race is dedicated to our “Community First Responders” frontline workers and grassroots leaders who work tirelessly to provide a bridge to hope, healing and possibility while we work towards change.

The communities contending with the highest levels of gun violence also experience the highest rates of Covid-19. With infection rates trending up, concerns around the new variants, the reopening of schools, and the fact that many of our attendees live and serve in communities with the lowest vaccination rates, it is imperative to put safety first. The GOOD NEWS is we can still run together, if apart, to bring out the best of our city and support those building peace in Chicago.

Our VIRTUAL Platform is OPEN NOW so you can choose to run or walk your distance when it’s best for you! We also encourage you to join us on September 25^th at 10AM where we will “race” together across Chicago and beyond. Whenever you decide to complete your race, you can upload your results and finish line photos to share with family and friends!

Anywhere! This is your virtual run, and we want you to complete it wherever you want. Sidewalks, paths, treadmill—make this run your own! Want to run with your family or your pet? Do it! With people from more than 250 zip codes joining RAGV, you’ll be joining others from communities across Chicago and the country! 

RAGV offers a one-of kind opportunity to connect, commit, contribute and be part of positive CHANGE. Get to know our 60+ community partners/charities through our Interactive Map and join of a community of people working to bring out the best of our city. RAGV’s Choose Hope, Why I Run and Let’s Talk About Peace series as well as our Virtual Race Platform offer meaningful ways to connect and get involved!!

There is a race for every age and fitness level and the virtual race format offers the opportunity for participants to complete an 8k or 5k run, or a 2-mile walk. Kids can do a Tots for Peace Sprint. You’ll choose the course and share your victory lap with the RAGV community!

Participating charities are encouraged to use the Race Against Gun Violence online platform to raise funds for their organization, receiving 100% of donations every two weeks. Especially now as community organizations contend with loss of revenue, uncertainty and emerging needs related to the pandemic, RAGV provides a catalyst for concerned citizens to connect directly to communities and get involved.

Starting now you can register for 8k, 5k races, a 2-mile walk and Tots for Peace Sprint and our virtual platform is open! All virtual race participants will receive a new design high-tech race shirt, medal, individualized bib and $10 off your next purchase at Fleet Feet!