While people are stuck at home looking for ways to exercise, Team USA runner and Olympic hopeful Nikki Hiltz is putting together a way to build community, exercise and support an important LGBTQ organization all at the same time.

On June 28, Hiltz and the Golden Coast Track Club will host a virtual 5k race to raise money for The Trevor Project. People everywhere are encouraged to participate, and registration is now open.

“I’m so excited to finally bring my running community and my LGBTQ+ community together,” she wrote on Twitter:

The fundraising event has already garnered over 1,300 registrations.

Hiltz told Outsports that, while everyone can’t be in one place at the same time for a run, she wanted to create something that everyone can do together at the same time on the sidewalks and trails in their own neighborhood.

“It’s a virtual race, so there are no results,” Hiltz said. “Just get out the door that day and run or walk a 5k wherever you’d like. It’s less about the actual pace and more about getting out the door, running for love, and supporting a wonderful organization.”

It’s even more poignant given the reported spike in calls to suicide hotlines during the coronavirus pandemic.

Hiltz represented the United States at the IAAF World Track and Field Championships last year.

The Olympic hopeful knows not everyone is ready to run a 5k, which is a little more than three miles. To that end, with registration she’s offering an eight-week training program as well as a T-shirt.

“With everything going on in the world I think one of the most important things we can do is help others and really show up for those who need it most,” Hiltz wrote. “Because right now, we need Love More Than Ever.

Registration for the fundraising run costs $35. You can find more information about the 5k race and register by clicking here.

You can follow Nikki Hiltz on Twitter @Nikki_Hiltz, and on Instagram @NikkiHiltz.

If you are considering suicide, or struggling with all that is going on, talk with someone. LGBTQ youth (ages 24 and younger) can reach the Trevor Project Lifeline at 1-866-488-7386. Adults can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 24 hours a day, and it’s available to people of all ages and identities. Trans or gender-nonconforming people can reach Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860.

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