R.U.S.H. 5K, Saint Charles

R.U.S.H. 5K, or the Run Uniting Super Heroes, encourages runners, joggers, and walkers to come dressed as their favorite comic-book hero. But strapping on a cape isn't what makes a true hero on this day—it's the fact that every participant raises money for The Sparrow's Nest, a maternity home for young women in need who are pregnant or parenting; and Bridgeway Behavioral Health, which operates two emergency, domestic violence shelters for women and children. The 5K occurs and is followed with a one-mile fun run for kids, and both races end with a celebration and awards ceremony. Here, DJs spin family-friendly music as kids practice flying in bounce houses and adults change back into their everyday disguises.