RED Day Run

Thirteen years ago, volunteers gathered at Mitch Park, pitched a few tents and hoped a new 5K could make a difference. By day’s end, they had raised $35,000. This year, the RED Day Run reaches an even bigger milestone: more than $2 million returned to the Edmond community. 

“It’s a labor of love,” sponsorship chair Brad Reeser said. “I couldn’t be prouder of what it’s become and how people continue to show up for our city.” 

RED stands for Renew, Energize and Donate, reflecting Keller Williams’ longstanding commitment to community service. Edmond’s Mo Anderson, former CEO of Keller Williams International, helped establish the company’s annual RED Day, originally focused on volunteer projects. About 14 years ago, Edmond volunteers asked a simple question: How could we make an even bigger impact locally? The answer was a 5K. 

The inaugural race supported the American Cancer Society and the Alzheimer’s Association. As participation grew, organizers shifted their focus to Edmond nonprofits. “We went local so we could help folks in this community,” Reeser said. 

Today, Reeser believes the RED Day Run is Oklahoma’s largest charity race by dollars distributed. This year, organizers expect to give away approximately $276,000. Eight primary charities compete for a share of the proceeds through race participation. Runners select a charity during registration, and organizations bringing at least 100 participants become eligible for additional funding based on registrations. Another eight nonprofits share 10% of the proceeds. 

“A major sponsor once told me, ‘You guys are like the United Way to Edmond,'” Reeser said. “In a lot of ways, that’s true because we support the organizations serving people who need it most.” 

The two-hour race may seem effortless to participants, but it requires nearly nine months of planning by volunteers coordinating sponsors, registration, logistics and race operations. Many sponsors have supported the event since its earliest years. 

“This is so much work,” Reeser said. “When it’s over, there’s an incredible sense of satisfaction. It’s worth it.” Race day features a DJ, food vendors, sponsor booths, family activities, medals, and hundreds of runners and walkers filling the course. 

Even after surpassing $2 million in community giving, organizers continue thinking bigger. Anderson has long envisioned the event someday raising $1 million in a single year. For now, Reeser says the best way to help is simple: show up. “We need more participants, whether they want to race or simply contribute.” 

Race day is Saturday, September 26, 2026. Get involved at runsignup.com/Race/OK/Edmond/RedDayRun.