A Virtual Challenge Supporting American Rivers
Walk. Run. Hike. Bike. Paddle.
Join us for Stepping Up 2026, a virtual challenge supporting American Rivers and their mission to protect clean water and healthy rivers. Whether you walk, run, hike, bike, or paddle, every step you take helps support waterways that provide drinking water, wildlife habitat, and recreation for communities across the country.
Registration Is Closed—But You Can Still Step Up!
Registration for the 2026 Stepping Up Virtual 5K is now closed, but you can still support the cause.
Walk, run, hike or paddle with us during September 13–19, and consider making a donation to support American Rivers. Every step and every contribution makes a difference.
Why American Rivers
Life depends on rivers.
Rivers provide clean drinking water, support wildlife, strengthen communities, and connect us to the outdoors. For more than 50 years, American Rivers has worked to protect healthy rivers, restore damaged rivers, and conserve clean water for people and nature.
Through Stepping Up 2026, we’re proud to support American Rivers and their mission to ensure that future generations can enjoy clean, healthy waterways.
Every registration helps raise awareness and support for the rivers, streams, and watersheds that sustain our communities.
Every Step. Every Stream.
Learn more about American Rivers. CLICK HERE
Ready to Make Every Step Count?
Race Week: September 13-19
If you would like to make a donation via check, please make it payable to “KSKJ Life Foundation”, indicate “Stepping Up 2026” on the memo line, and send to: 2435 Glenwood Ave. Joliet, IL 60435
*Participants who registered by July 31 will receive a Stepping Up T-shirt before race week.