RIDC’s FIND YOUR PATH CAREER SUMMIT 2024

Reflecting on an Unforgettable Day: RIDC/CRC First Career Summit and For the Girls 5K Walk/Run

Hey Charlotte Runners,

What an incredible day it was! We’re still buzzing with excitement and gratitude after hosting the Running Industry Diversity Coalition’s (RIDC) first-ever Career Summit, alongside the inspiring For the Girls 5K Walk/Run. It was a day filled with energy, inspiration, and a shared commitment to making the running industry more inclusive and accessible for everyone.

A Day of Empowerment and Opportunity

The Career Summit was everything we hoped it would be—and more! From the moment the doors opened, there was a palpable sense of enthusiasm and curiosity. Attendees from all walks of life came together, eager to learn, connect, and explore the many career opportunities within the running industry.

Our workshops and panel discussions were packed with valuable insights. Industry leaders shared their journeys, offering guidance and inspiration to those looking to carve out their paths in the world of running. Whether it was learning about retail management, sports marketing, or event planning, attendees left with a deeper understanding of the diverse roles that make up our industry.

One of the highlights was the chance to get hands-on experience with our team at Charlotte Running Company. Participants got a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run a successful specialty store, from customer service to product selection and community engagement. It was a fantastic opportunity to see the passion and dedication that goes into every aspect of what we do.

Celebrating Strength with the For the Girls 5K Walk/Run

The day wouldn’t have been complete without the For the Girls 5K Walk/Run, which turned out to be a beautiful celebration of strength, resilience, and community. The course was filled with runners and walkers of all ages, coming together to support and uplift one another.

The energy on the streets was infectious. From first-time participants to seasoned athletes, everyone brought their A-game, making this one of the most memorable events we’ve hosted. The camaraderie, the cheers, and the shared sense of accomplishment at the finish line were a testament to the power of community.

A Community United

We’re incredibly proud of what we accomplished together. The Career Summit and the 5K weren’t just events; they were a reflection of our shared commitment to making the running industry a space where everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered.

A huge thank you to everyone who attended, participated or supported us in any way. Your enthusiasm and passion made this day possible, and we couldn’t have done it without you. We also want to extend our deepest gratitude to the Running Industry Diversity Coalition for partnering with us on this important initiative. Together, we’re paving the way for a more inclusive future in the running industry.

Looking Ahead

As we look back on this amazing day, we’re already thinking about what’s next. The success of this event has inspired us to keep pushing for greater diversity and inclusion in everything we do. We’re excited to continue these conversations, build on the momentum, and create even more opportunities for everyone in our community.

Thank you again for being a part of this journey. Let’s keep running towards a brighter, more inclusive future—together.

Until next time, keep moving forward,

The Charlotte Running Company Team