Charity despite Corona: How the National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg was successful with a virtual run

In addition to raising funds, the run also aims to create awareness for the topic of cancer and prevention. Together, around 10,000 people set an example against the insidious disease every year on the grounds of the Institute for Sports and Sports Science at Heidelberg University and at the Olympic Training Center.

However, preparations for the NCT Run were abruptly interrupted in the spring of 2020: The COVID19 pandemic made the event impossible. However, a complete cancellation was not an option for the NCT team. A new idea was needed, and it became a huge success: the virtual run “NCT-LAUFend gegen Krebs: Alleine. Together!”.

Worldwide – alone – together – make a mark

The virtual run took place from June 26 – 28. Thanks to the digital project format, participants all over the world were able to join in. The NCT Heidelberg called for people to run alone or in small groups according to the corona guidelines and to send messages, photos and videos and post them on social media with the hashtag #nctlauf. 

At this point, many participants had already paid their entry fees, which now had to be reversed. Around 70% donated this amount to the NCT Heidelberg, the remaining 30% was quickly and easily transferred back with the help of the FundraisingBox and Race Result AG. The NCT contact persons of our support team were immediately on hand for this, helped with technical questions and passed on tips and knowledge. The easy import and export of Excel files to and from the FundraisingBox also made the NCT team’s work easier.

Combined online measures that led to success

One of the biggest challenges, however, was to digitally mobilize the global running community. To motivate as many people as possible, companies, hospitals, universities and organizations were contacted worldwide. Registered runners were kept up to date via a newsletter. As an incentive to share photos and videos, 25 runner packages were also raffled off. 

To give participants the most authentic NCT run experience possible, a toolbox was designed for the run. There, runners found race bibs to print out, print templates for running shirts and posters, and even a matching playlist. 

A highlight was the specially created location map, which was continuously updated and illustrated the international character of the virtual NCT run. It was clicked on particularly often and gave not only the participants and the team from the NCT Heidelberg, but also us goose bumps:

The goal of 40,000 km was far exceeded: around 120,000 km were run against cancer. Of course, our fundraising tool was also used in this project: 44 fundraising campaigns were started. Together with our corporate partner SAP, which supported each kilometer run with a donation, more than €75,000 was raised for the NCT Heidelberg!

If you think this is where the project ends, you’ll be surprised: The virtual run event of the NCT Heidelberg will also be featured in the book ‘Heidelberg Heroes 2020,’ which is dedicated to those who have shown exceptional commitment during the coronavirus crisis. The book includes interviews, photos, greetings, and scientific guest contributions. Proceeds from the sale will benefit charitable and social institutions in Heidelberg.