Akron, OH (March 11, 2021) — The Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation staff and Board of Directors are thrilled to announce applications have opened for its Blue Line Charity Partner Program and its Blue Line Runnership Program.

Part of the mission of the Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation is to benefit nonprofit and charitable organizations. To date, more than $6 million dollars has been raised through the net proceeds of events, runner donations, and its Blue Line Charity Partner Program.

The Blue Line Charity Partner Program allows nonprofits from the community to use the Akron Marathon Race Series presented by Summa Health as a fundraiser. With over 14,000 runners and 2,000 volunteers, the Akron Marathon and related events provide a large audience for nonprofit organizations. Local nonprofit organizations with a 501(c)3 status are eligible to apply by visiting akronmarathon.org/charitypartners. The top three charities that raise more than $5,000 as part of the Blue Line Charity Program will receive a donation from the Akron Marathon. Donations vary depending on annual proceeds.

As part of this program, nonprofit partners are asked to recruit runners who will fundraise on their behalf, as well as volunteers to give their time race weekend. All funds raised by the individual nonprofits will go directly to them.

In addition to the opening of the Blue Line Charity Partner Program, this year will also include a Blue Line Runnership Program. This program offers runner scholarships/race entries to area nonprofits that serve the underprivileged, disadvantaged, or those struggling with mental health and/or recovery. Applications will be accepted through April 30, 2021, at akronmarathon.org/runnership.

If chosen, free race entries will be awarded based on their organization’s services and eligibility. These individuals will be able to participate in one or more of our events in the Akron Marathon Race Series presented by Summa Health.

“As a nonprofit, we know the work and dedication that goes into providing services to this incredible community,” states Anne Bitong, president and CEO of the Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation. “We’re so proud of these programs and the opportunities to partner with incredible organizations on the Blue Line.”

The following race dates are confirmed:   

  • National Interstate 8k & 1 Mile, June 26, 2021
  • Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k, Aug. 14, 2021
  • FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon & Team Relay, Sept. 25, 2021

For more information, race registration, and volunteer opportunities, please visit AkronMarathon.org.

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Contact:

Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation

Kat Allen, kat@ampstrategy.com

330-714-2274

About the Akron Marathon Race Series

The Akron Marathon Race Series is organized by the Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation, a nonprofit group founded in 2002 to provide a world-class marathon and other events that promote health and fitness, stimulate the local economy, galvanize the community and benefit charitable organizations. The series features race dates in June (National Interstate 8k & 1 Mile) and August (Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k), culminating with the 19th running of the FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon, Team Relay & Kids Fun Run in September. Additional information is available at AkronMarathon.org or by calling (330) 434-2RUN (2786).