Now in its third year, the Veterans Day 5K provides much-needed support for student veterans and their dependents for essentials like housing, books and emergency expenses.Support veterans and their families by participating in the third annual Veterans Day 5K on Nov. 8, hosted by the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Veterans Services.

This community event, presented by VIVA Health, is dedicated to honoring those who have served and supporting the next generation of military-connected students. Since the race’s launch in 2023, more than $20,000 has been raised to support student veterans and their dependents. UAB Veterans Services has distributed more than $9,000 in direct relief to students in need for essentials like housing, books and emergency expenses.

Runners, walkers, ruckers, strollers and wheelchair racers are all welcome. Lace up to celebrate the 107th anniversary of Armistice Day and join UAB Veterans Services in continuing a proud tradition that began in Birmingham in 1947. Last year, more than 1,100 people participated in the Veterans Day 5K, and even more participants are expected this year.

The race will begin and end at Railroad Park, 1600 First Ave. South, and the course will travel through Birmingham’s Health District, an area where health and wellness are promoted. The run will begin at 8 a.m.

Visit go.uab.edu/veteransdayrun for details. Registration is open now at runsignup.com. Registration fees are $45; $35 for students; $40 for veterans and active-duty service members; and $20 for the 1-Mile Fun Run, until Nov. 5. Registration is free for children age 12 or younger. All 5K participants will receive an event T-shirt and finisher medal in their race packet.

Sponsors of the Veterans Day 5K are VIVA Health, UAB Student Affairs, AmFirst Credit Union, the Jefferson County Department of Health, Cooper Green Mercy Health, Birmingham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Live HealthSmart Alabama, the City of Birmingham, Housing Authority Birmingham District, Southern Research, Children’s of Alabama, Girls on the Run, and HEAL United: Healthy Eating Active Living.