Lace up your sneakers and join us on a journey that’s more than just a run—it’s a movement toward a brighter future for children through the power of reading. United Way of the Columbia-Willamette’s Race for Reading is a heartwarming initiative that brings together runners, community members, and supporters of literacy, all united in one goal: to ensure that every child has access to the magic of books.
Run with a Purpose
Imagine hitting the pavement with every step you take transforming into hope for a child. Our Race for Reading is more than a fundraising event—it’s a celebration of community spirit and the belief that literacy can change lives. Just like other inspiring charity runs around the country, we channel the energy of thousands who are passionate about making a difference. Each mile run raises vital funds for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a program that delivers free books to children, fostering a love of reading from an early age.
How it Works
- Sign Up and Start Fundraising: Contact Nicole (nicolel@unitedway-pdx.org) to register and begin your fundraising journey.
- Reach the Minimum Goal to unlock your exclusive access code to claim your bib. Each event has a different goal, contact us for details.
- Earn Rewards: Charity Athletes receive race entry, a United Way shirt, and will unlock additional perks for their fundraising efforts!
- Make an Impact: Every dollar raised supports our partnership with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in Clackamas, Multnomah & Washington counties.
Shamrock Run — 03.16.25
You missed us for the 2025 Portland Shamrock Run, but if you’re interested in securing your bib for 2026 by donating or fundraising for your exclusive All-Distance Access Code, please contact us!
Seabrook Relay (A Hood to Coast Race) — 05.31.25
This race is SOLD OUT to the public, but you can still join if you support us! Contact us for teams!
The Seabrook Relay is a fairly flat, fast, and beautifully scenic team journey with a looped course starting and ending in the charming coastal community of Seabrook, Washington. The course is 60.2 miles for running teams/40.4 miles for walking teams of 4-6 members.
Red, White & Blues Run (We're the charity of choice!) — 06.28.25
Hood To Coast Race Series! Red, White & Blues 5K, 10K and United Way Kids Race – June 28, 2025. A Fourth of July themed race starting and finishing in downtown West Linn. This festive race will bring you to a finish line full of vendors, drinks, food, and a hot dog eating contest!
Hood to Coast Relay — 08.22.25 - 08.23.25
No 2025 teams available, contact us now for 2026 entry and skip the lottery!
Known as the Mother of All Relays, Hood & Portland To Coast Relay is the most popular and largest running/walking relay race in the world, drawing participants from over 40 countries and all 50 states. This 196-mile relay (128 miles for Portland To Coast) has filled its team limit for the past 36 years and on Opening Lottery Day for 32 consecutive years!
High Desert Relay (A Hood to Coast Race) — 10.04.25
Leave the city behind and immerse yourself in majestic mountains and big, clear skies of Central Oregon. Each leg of the relay boasts spectacular views from the scenic Cascade Mountains and Smith Rock to the Prineville Reservoir and the Crooked River. The course is 68.7 miles for running teams/44.7 miles for walking teams of 4-6 members.
Turkey Trot and the United Way Kids Race (A Hood to Coast Race) — 11.26.25
Be the first to see the lights at the Portland International Raceway! This 5k race takes you on a holiday themed journey through the lights of the Sunshine Division Winter Wonderland.
