We Gotta Run is an initiative designed to encourage firefighters, EMS personnel, and the community to collectively engage in running or walking.
In firefighting and emergency medical services, an emergency call is often referred to as a “run.” This initiative leverages that terminology to inspire participation in physical activity, aiming to build healthier lifestyles and foster stronger relationships between emergency responders and the community.
Given that heart disease and cancer are leading causes of death for both firefighters and the general population, We Gotta Run seeks to create a culture that prioritizes physical activity and provides the support necessary for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Through this initiative, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics can engage with the community outside of their professional duties, promoting wellness and mutual support.
Weekly Mileage Tracker
Each participant is required to submit their weekly mileage by Sunday at 11:59 PM
Official Rules
Sign-Up and Participation
Eligibility: The program is open to all runners/walkers, regardless of experience level. However, participants must register via our official sign-up form and make a donation of $25 to join.
Sign-Up Deadline: Participants must sign up by the 1st of each month to be eligible for that month’s challenge.
Participant Confirmation: Upon successful registration, participants will receive a welcome email with rules, instructions, and the link to log their miles. Participants will also receive a complimentary We Gotta Run t-shirt.
Tracking Miles
Weekly Submission: Each participant is required to submit their weekly mileage by Sunday at 11:59 PM.
Click here to track your weekly miles!
Proof of Mileage: Participants must provide proof of their mileage (via app screenshots or wearable tracking data).
No Fake Miles: To ensure fairness, mileage submitted must be honest and accurate. Any manipulation of mileage will lead to disqualification.
Social Media Engagement
Tagging the Group: Each participant must follow and tag Food on the Stove’s official social media pages (e.g., Instagram, Facebook, Twitter) in at least one post per week, sharing their running experience, training, or progress.
Hashtags: Participants must use the official hashtag #WeGottaRun to help track engagement and visibility.
Sharing Milestones: Participants are encouraged to post about significant milestones (e.g., weekly totals, personal bests, etc.) for community engagement.
Monthly Prize and Winner Determination
Mileage Leader: At the end of each month, the runner with the most total miles logged will be awarded the monthly prize.
Prize: Prizes may include running gear, gift cards, or other rewards, depending on sponsorship or group funds.
Tie-Breaker: In case of a tie, the runner with the highest weekly mileage will win.
Fundraising
Goal: Each month, Food on the Stove will use the funds raised through the We Gotta Run campaign to donate groceries to the firehouse of the winner’s choice.
Tracking Donations: Donations will be tracked each month through the platform, and weekly updates will be shared via social media to encourage friendly competition and participation.
Fundraising Challenge: To further encourage donations, participants can voluntarily pledge to run/walk a certain number of miles for the month and raise $1 for every mile logged, earning additional recognition or prizes.
Accountability and Transparency
Regular Updates: The group will post weekly updates, featuring top runners, milestones, and fundraising progress.
Leaderboard: A publicly visible leaderboard will be posted weekly on Food on the Stove’s social media page to encourage friendly competition and motivation.
Fundraising Transparency: Donations will be tracked and made transparent to ensure that the funds are used appropriately.
Disqualification Criteria
Failure to Submit Weekly Mileage: Missing two or more weekly submissions without valid reasoning may lead to disqualification from the monthly prize.
Inaccurate Mileage Reporting: Submitting false or exaggerated mileage will result in immediate disqualification.
Failure to Participate in Fundraising Efforts: While fundraising is not mandatory, active participation is highly encouraged. Lack of involvement in fundraising may affect eligibility for certain prizes.
Terms and Conditions
Changes to Rules: The group reserves the right to update or modify the rules, especially if unforeseen challenges arise.
Acceptance: By signing up, participants agree to all rules and the possibility of Food on the Stove using their social media posts for promotional purposes (with credit).
