Running a race, like competing in a jalapeño-eating contest, requires months of training, engages sweat glands, and amasses helpful strangers handing out cups of cold water. Drink in your victory with today's Groupon: for $15, you get entry to the Chicago 5K Freedom Run on September 10 at 8:30 a.m. (a $35 value).
As Traffick Free's inaugural 3.1-mile dash along Diversey Harbor, the Chicago 5K Freedom Run mingles fleet-footed factions in a race to raise awareness about human trafficking in the Windy City. Runners flex their quads and test their endurance as they speed through the 5K course, gazing at the glittering waters of Diversey Harbor or running neck-and-neck with a galloping peacock alongside the edges of Lincoln Park Zoo. Jog the course solo or bring along a band of nimble-toed companions to draw favored friends and loved ones into the cause to end Chicago's role as one of the national hubs for modern-day slavery. Athletes can flaunt further support with a race T-shirt ($10, not included in this Groupon), available at registration or on race day.
Traffick Free
During Traffick Free's annual 5k Run Against Traffick, participants trot along the shore of Diversey Harbor without once interfering with local traffic patterns. Instead, the run raises awareness of human trafficking, which the organization estimates affects 27 million people worldwide. Traffick Free focuses specifically on Chicago, but also hosts events and recommends actions that can combat trafficking on a national scale, from calling elected officials to flagging dubious Craigslist ads.