Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon Establishes Non-profit to Support Charities
Posted: 03/21/2007
CLEVELAND – The Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon & 10K, one of the 50 oldest marathons in America, has established a 501(c)3 charitable organization whose mission is to raise and distribute funds to other Northeast Ohio non-profit organizations.
“Our goal for Cleveland Marathon Charities is to formalize our philanthropic efforts in the community, which have already surpassed $1 million in donations through sponsorships and discounted entry fees,” said Jack Staph, executive director of the Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon. “Cleveland Marathon Charities will provide funding to non-profit organizations that get involved in the race by providing volunteers and spectators, and it will coordinate their involvement.”
“The marathon has brought more than 250,000 runners and hundreds of thousands of spectators to the streets of Cleveland since 1977, and it will pump about $8 million into the local economy this year – mostly into hotels, restaurants and other for-profit businesses,” said Mary Grace McGuirk, director of fundraising for the Cleveland Marathon Charities. “This new organization will provide an avenue for those companies that benefit from the race’s impact to give something back to the community.”
As the number of participants in the marathon, half-marathon, 10K, wheelchair challenge and kid’s run continue to increase, so does the need for volunteers and spectators, said McGuirk. Northeast Ohio charitable organizations that organize groups of spectators or volunteers may be eligible for Cleveland Marathon Charities contributions and should contact the organization to learn more about the guidelines of the program, she said.
Interested charitable organizations and businesses interested in making a financial contribution to the Cleveland Marathon Charities may contact Mary Grace McGuirk at 216-589-9053 or mgmcguirk@yahoo.com for additional information.
Cleveland Marathon Charities (501c3) organizes and financially rewards school, church and other non-profit groups that show their support of health and fitness through running by their active involvement as participants, volunteers or cheerleaders in the Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon.
The 30th annual Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon will hit the streets of Cleveland on Sunday, May 20 at 7:00 a.m., and weave runners through historic and scenic parts of the city. There will be a 26.3 Mile Rock Party at the finish line featuring food and live music. Those who are interested in participating in the marathon, half-marathon, 10K, wheelchair challenge, walking divisions or kid’s race, can register online at www.clevelandmarathon.com or call 1-800-467-3826 for more information.
About the Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon & 10K
The Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon & 10K is now in its 30th year of providing a running experience for all individuals who want to participate regardless of their abilities. More than 250,000 runners have participated, generating more than $8 million annually to benefit the Cleveland community.
Mission Statement:
To provide a running experience for all individuals who want to participate regardless of their abilities. To produce an event that highlights the Cleveland community and provides a positive economic impact for the community. To give charities an opportunity to benefit financially from the Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon & 10K.
# # #
Contact: Mary Grace McGuirk, Director of Fundraising, mgmcguirk@yahoo.com or (216) 589-9053