Summer is all about getting out and doing things when the weather is warm: the beach, the pool, the summer family vacations. As we head into the fall season, with temperatures dropping daily, it may seem like the time to start staying in. But it’s not. In fact, there’s more to do now than ever, and it’s all for good, local causes.

For the avid cyclists and their supporters, Ride Without Limits hits Washington the first weekend of October. Money raised will go to Easter Seals/UCP.

The following weekend, runners will be out again, this time for the Bath High School Preservation 5K run/walk —proceeds of which will go to the restoration of the old Bath High School, which will house the expanded Bath Library. Of course, the weekend of Oct. 18-19 is a big one for Washington, as the annual barbecue festival, Smoke on the Water, will be held on the waterfront. Money funds raised by Smoke on the Water benefit a variety of nonprofit organizations in the area, as well as support Washington Noon Rotary scholarships for deserving freshman students. In conjunction, the Eagle’s Wings 5K Race Against Hunger will be held that Saturday morning, with proceeds going directly to our local food pantry.

And the next day, the “Save Blounts Creek” 5K race will be held at Cotton Patch Landing and Marine — funds raised will be donated to the Pamlico-Tar River Foundation-North Carolina Coastal Federation-Southern Environmental Law Center legal action against the proposed Martin Marietta Materials mine in southern Beaufort County.

This time of year, the weather is perfect for a nice run — or walk, if you’re not into running. Hardworking volunteers have put together a month of opportunity: to get out and enjoy the season, and at the same time contribute to the good causes all around.