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16th Annual Red Shoe 5k Run & Walk

Sunday, October 4, 2026 | Kids Fun Run: 8:30AM; 5k: 9:00AM
National Harbor
Forest Heights, MD 20745 US

Volunteer Opportunities

Bib & T-Shirt Pick-Up

September 25, 2026

September 26, 2026

Details

Bib and T-shirt pickup for runners will be held at our Northern Virginia House. Volunteer responsibilities include organizing and distributing bibs and T-shirts to registered runners.

Location

3312 Gallows Road
Falls Church, VA 22042

Pavillion & Table Set Up Team

October 4, 2026

Details

Help us get the Red Shoe 5K ready before participants arrive. Volunteers will assist with setting up tables, chairs, event materials, signage, and other supplies throughout the pavilion and event area. This role may involve lifting, carrying, and moving event supplies.

Information & Guest Services

October 4, 2026

Details

Be a friendly resource for runners, volunteers, families, and guests throughout race day. Volunteers will answer basic event questions, provide directions, help guests navigate the event area, and connect participants with event staff when additional assistance is needed.

Registration & Check-In High Priority

October 4, 2026

Details

Welcome runners and help get race day off to a smooth start. Volunteers will assist with participant check-in, provide runners with event materials, answer basic questions, and help direct participants to the appropriate areas.

Pier Tent & Community Booth Support

October 4, 2026

Details

Help welcome participants and community members to our event activities on the pier. Volunteers will assist with tent and booth activities, greet guests, share basic event information, help keep the area organized, and support participating community partners as needed.

Support Corporate Partners & Forever Families in VIP Section High Priority

October 4, 2026

Details

Help us provide a warm and welcoming experience for our corporate partners and Forever Families in the VIP area. Volunteers will greet guests, assist with refreshments and event needs, help keep the area organized, and provide general support throughout the event.

Stroller & Family Rest Area

October 4, 2026

Details

Help create a convenient and welcoming space for families attending the Red Shoe 5K. Volunteers will assist families using the stroller and rest area, help keep the space organized, and provide general support and directions as needed.

Floating Volunteer / Course Marshall

October 4, 2026

Details

Floating Volunteers / Course Marshals will help keep the Red Shoe 5K running smoothly by assisting wherever support is needed throughout the event. Responsibilities may include directing and cheering on runners along the course, helping participants navigate the event area, supporting water stations, and stepping in to assist with other event needs as they arise.

Location

Capital Canopy on National Plaza at National Harbor, MD 20745

Start & Finish Line Cheer Squad High Priority

October 4, 2026

Details

Help make the beginning and end of every runner's 5K memorable. Volunteers will cheer participants on as they cross the starting line and celebrate their accomplishment as they return to the finish.

Kid's Fun Run Cheer Squad High Priority

October 4, 2026

Details

Bring plenty of enthusiasm to cheer on our youngest Red Shoe runners. Volunteers will encourage children along the Fun Run course and help create a fun, welcoming, and celebratory experience for kids and their families.

General Race Course Cheer Squad High Priority

October 4, 2026

Details

Help create an energetic and supportive race-day atmosphere throughout the 5K course. Volunteers will be stationed at designated locations to cheer on runners, offer encouragement, and help participants stay on course as needed.

Halfway Point Cheer Squad High Priority

October 4, 2026

Details

Give runners an extra boost as they reach the halfway point of the 5K. Volunteers will cheer, encourage, and celebrate participants as they make their way through the course.

Location

DISCLAIMER: You will need to be able to walk to this portion of the course. More details on the exact location will be provided closer to race day. If you do not feel comfortable doing this, please sign up for another volunteer opportunity.

Medal Distribution for Runners & Kid's Fun Run High Priority

October 4, 2026

Details

Celebrate our runners at the finish line. Volunteers will distribute medals to 5K participants and Kid's Fun Run participants as they complete their race and help make sure every finisher receives recognition for their accomplishment.

Photographer

October 4, 2026

Details

Help us capture the energy and joy of race day! Volunteer photographers will assist with candid and posed shots of participants, volunteers, and key moments throughout the event. A shot list will be provided to guide your coverage. We ask that volunteers bring a personal or professional camera to ensure the best quality images.

Event Breakdown & Clean Up

October 4, 2026

Details

Help us wrap up the Red Shoe 5K and leave the event space clean and organized. Volunteers will assist with breaking down tables, chairs, signage, tents, and other event materials; collecting supplies; removing trash; and helping return the event area to its original condition. This role may involve lifting, carrying, and moving event supplies.

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