Photo by Lexi Coon.
Allies and members from the local LGBTQ community recently formed a running group that is hoping to add more runners.
Every Sunday at 5 p.m., allies and members from the local LGBTQ community meet in front of the Birmingham Aids Outreach (BAO) building at 205 32nd St. S. to gather and run together.
Katie Reece, who is the director of counseling and support groups for (BAO), said a group of a little under a dozen people have started regularly coming since June. As they continue to train together, Reece said they’re hoping to add even more people. The group is open to anyone in the LGBTQ community and allies, she said.
“It’s a great way for people in the community who are looking for connections and looking to build their self care routine and take care of themselves,” she said.
The group, which is run by a community volunteer, is currently training in intervals of running and walking along the Rotary Trail for 30 minutes to an hour and will be participating in upcoming 5Ks. Reece said they plan to meet for weekly runs through the winter, take a break for a while and then start back up next year.
BAO is a nonprofit that provides a variety of resources and services for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. The Magic City Wellness Center and Magic City Acceptance Center, which is under the BAO’s umbrella, act as a medical and wellness facility and youth center for the LGBTQ community.
For more information, email Reece at katie@mcwc-bao.org or go to their Facebook page, @mcwcbao, where the running group is listed as an event.
