2026 UNCF South Texas Walk for Education – Houston
Ready to log some miles for a purpose? Join us for the 41st Annual UNCF South Texas – Houston Walk/Run for Education—a high-energy 5K (3.1 miles) where every step supports students and historically Black colleges and universities.
This is a non-timed, all-paces-welcome event, perfect whether you’re chasing a personal goal, enjoying a casual jog, or walking with friends. The vibe is electric, the course is accessible, and the impact is real. Bring your crew, rep your team, and be part of a long-standing tradition that fuels futures. Run or walk—just don’t miss your chance to make every mile matter!
Check-In
Warm Up
Opening Ceremony
5K Walk/Run Begins
President (PRESENTING) Sponsor – $50,000: SOLD
Dean Sponsor – $25,000
Professor Sponsor – $15,000
Finish Line Sponsor – $15,000: SOLD
Future Scholars Corner Sponsor – $12,000: SOLD
Scholar Sponsor – $7,500
Mile Marker Sponsor – $5,000 (3 AVAILABLE)
Water Station Sponsor – $5,000 (3 AVAILABLE)
Trail Ad Sponsor – $750
Student Unmet Needs – $1,000
Friend of UNCF – $500
For more information, please contact Christy.Salinas@UNCF.org
WHEN DOES THE EVENT START?
Saturday, September 26, 2026. 5K begins at 8:00 a.m.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE IN THE 5K/10K?
All ages can participate in the 5K/10K events, with ages 6 and under free to accompany a family member. Strollers and walkers are also welcome; we just ask that you start in the back of the corral at event start to allow runners ahead. All participants must finish within the 120 minute timeframe (20 min avg. per mile). Leashed dogs are allowed.
PARTICIPANT GIVEAWAYS
All 5K Participants Receive: Participant Bib, T-Shirt/Women’s Tank, Finisher Medal
IS UNCF A TAX-EXEMPT, NOT-FOR-PROFIT CHARITY?
Yes, UNCF is 501(c)(3) and EIN# is 13-1624241
IS MY PERSONAL REGISTRATION FEE TAX-DEDUCTIBLE?
The registration fee to participate in the event is not deductible, but any additional donation made on top of your registration fee qualifies.
WHEN WILL I GET MY RUNNER SWAG?
Registrants for in-person races will receive race swag packet pickup information from their race directors, closer to the date of the event. Shadow Event and Virtual registrants will receive their official race shirt, race bib, and runner swag via direct mail. Packages ship 5-7 days after registration, beginning in mid-July and continuing on a rolling basis.
DO I HAVE TO RUN OR CAN I WALK?
Walking is allowed and welcome.
ARE THERE AGE LIMITATIONS?
Registrants of all ages are welcome. We encourage family participation!
HOW DO I REGISTER TO VOLUNTEER AT A RACE LOCATION?
Anyone may register to volunteer at no charge. Email Kennedy.Lane@UNCF.org or fill out this form: https://forms.gle/gHog6DVLL7sakPNR6
DO YOU OFFER TEAM REGISTRATIONS?
Yes. To register as part of a team, follow the normal registration process and simply select to add a team name (or select an already existing team name) to add to your registration details.
IS THERE A STUDENT DISCOUNT TO PARTICIPATE?
Yes. We are pleased to offer a special rate for students, including college students. Simply add discount code “LaceUp4UNCF” to register at a discounted rate.
CAN I GET A REFUND ON MY TICKET OR DONATION IF I DECIDE NOT TO PARTICIPATE, INCUR AN INJURY, OR DECIDE TO PASS MY REGISTRATION TO SOMEONE ELSE?
There are no refunds or transfers of registrations for any reason.
WHAT SHOULD BE DONE IN THE CASE OF INCLEMENT WEATHER?
This event will take place rain or shine. In the event of a major weather emergency, we may reschedule the race at our discretion. If the event is canceled you will not be refunded your registration fee; however, it will be deemed 100% tax-deductible as a donation to UNCF South Texas – Houston.
CAN I REGISTER ON RACE DAY?
Participants are not guaranteed a race shirt and participant swag on the same day if they wait to sign up on race day.
ARE PARTICIPANT MEDALS GIVEN FOR COMPLETING THE 5K?
All participants will receive finisher medals for completing the UNCF South Texas – Houston Walk for Education.
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We Need You!
Whether you’re great at organizing, greeting, setting up, cheering on walkers, managing water stations, or helping clean up—there’s a role for everyone. Your time and energy will directly support our mission to help students get to and through college by raising critical scholarship funds.
Sign up today: https://runsignup.com/Race/Volunteer/TX/Houston/UNCFHouston5k
