The sacrifice to physically participate in The Cooper River Bridge Run may vary depending on whom you ask. Yet this physical sacrifice is not the most demanding feature of the event. Select individuals, who choose to participate in The Cooper River Bridge Run’s charity connection, receive the same satisfaction for donating as if they had just set a personal best on race day. The Bridge Run has raised more than 325,000 for its participating charities. This year, three additional charities have been added and are the Semper Fi Fund, American Diabetes Association, and Water Missions International. Participants in the Bridge Run who donate to these charities receive a specialized race bib. So while these athletes rise to the challenge of the Bridge Run, they can proudly show that they helped these charities rise to the challenge that they face on a daily basis.

American Cancer Society has three million volunteers across the nation to help this organizations aid in cancer research, prevention, patient services, detection, and treatment.

American Diabetes Association mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and improve the lives of all those affected by diabetes. From funding research to providing objective and credible information, the American Diabetes Association reaches hundreds of communities each year.

Semper Fi Fund was established to provide financial and immediate stability to United States forces that have been injured or fallen critically ill. This organization also aids in family support, adaptive housing, and adaptive transportation.

Water Missions International headquartered in Charleston, S.C. this organization designs sustainable safe-water solutions that are cost effective and innovative for disaster victims world wide.

MUSC Children’s Hospital Fund supports the research, prevention, and treatment of childhood diseases within the department of pediatrics. This organization improves the lives of children at the hospital by providing toys and entertainment during their stay.

Alzheimer’s Association is the nation’s largest voluntary organization in Alzheimer care, support, and research. Their main goal is to eliminate Alzheimer’s through research and to provide care to those affected by the disease.

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation is the world’s largest source of non-profit funds in the cure for breast cancer. Their mission is to end breast cancer through research, education, and early screening and detection.

Louie’s Kids is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Charleston, S.C. which raises funds to help treat childhood obesity. Their mission statement is clear “fight obesity one child at a time.”

The Charleston Miracle League provides a community service baseball league to physically and mentally challenged adults and children through accessible recreational opportunities. The Miracle League began a fundraiser five years ago with the Bridge Run that has raised more than $100,000 to date.

The Lowcountry Center for Prevention of Child Abuse mission is to increase awareness for families and communities. This organization provides support for families at-risk of abuse in the Lowcountry and around the state through South Carolina Exchange Clubs.

Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy works with local law enforcement and emergency service agencies to provide support to families during times of an emergency. This organizations responsibility includes counseling families of law enforcement personnel, follow up with victims of crime, and notify family members in the event of a death.

Camp Happy Days’ offers support to children diagnosed with cancer in South Carolina by providing year round programs, special events, and access to crisis resources to them and their families – at no charge. Their mission is to offer life-changing experiences that offer self-esteem and strength to fight one more round.