By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Last year, Joining Hearts became the beneficiary of the well-known Speedo Run. This
year, they are back at it, planning a fun, skivvy-clad run through the streets of Atlanta.
David talked to Joining Hearts Board President Jerry Henderson about lessons learned
from last year, what to expect, and fundraising goals.
This is the second year Joining Hearts is the beneficiary of the Speedo Run. For
those Who don’t know about this cheeky holiday tradition, what is the Speedo
Run?
The mission of the Atlanta Santa Speedo Run is to raise funds for those less fortunate through the support of local charitable service organizations while providing a fun, non-competitive athletic event that brings people together to celebrate their community. Joining Hearts, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that raises awareness and funds to support prevention, care, and housing assistance to those impacted by HIV/AIDS in Atlanta, was asked to take the helm to continue the tradition due to our long history in making a difference in Atlanta.
In preparation for this year’s run, what lessons have you learned from last year?
We have learned that we need to partner with local businesses and acquire more sponsors for next year.
This may be a fun holiday celebration, but it actually raises funds for Joining
Heart’s mission to raise awareness and funds for prevention, care, and housing
assistance to those affected by HIV/AIDS in Atlanta. Do you have any fundraising
goals set for this year’s event?
Our goal for this year is to streamline the process more to make it more efficient and seamless for the user. In addition, we are trying to raise $5,000 more than last year’s total. as a baseline.
The Speedo Run itself – do you have to wear a Speedo?
You can be as jolly and festive as your little heart desires. However, wearing a speedo is not a requirement for participating.
Are there other ways (for those who don’t want to run scantily-clad through the
streets of Atlanta to support and donate to Joining Hearts?
Yes, visit joininghearts.org and select the DONATE button to donate in support of our mission or throughout the year by signing up to be a Patron to attend all our JH-sponsored events for free that are included at your level. More information can be found on our website.
Where would you sign up to participate in the Speedo Run?
You can sign up via our website for the Atlanta Santa Speedo Run via atlantasantaspeedorun.org/register/.
Anything else you would like to add?
Stay tuned for upcoming events for year 38 to be released soon or get involved.
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This year’s Santa Speedo Run is on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The route starts at Politan Row in Colony Square, proceeds down 14th into Piedmont Park, and circles back to Politan Row. Registration opens at 1:00 pm, the run begins at 2:00 pm, and the awards ceremony is at 2:30 pm.
