FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Boston Marathon Fundraising Surpasses $400 Million Milestone
The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) has announced that $32.1 million
was raised for 242 non-profit organizations surrounding the 2020 Boston
Marathon and Boston Marathon Virtual Experience. With this year's funds
raised, the B.A.A. Official Charity Program and John Hancock's Non-Profit
Program have combined to surpass the $400 million milestone raised since
the charity program's inception at the 1989 Boston Marathon.
Total funds raised include donations raised through the B.A.A.'s Official
Charity Program, the John Hancock Non-Profit Program, and from other
qualified and invitational runners.
"In a year when runners and supporters have faced countless challenges, all
have remained determined to finish strong and make a difference within the
community," said B.A.A. CEO Tom Grilk. "We are immensely proud of each and
every participant whose fundraising contributions will serve a meaningful
purpose supporting 242 non-profit and charity organizations. To achieve the
$400 million milestone in total funds raised adds even more meaning to this
year's event, where Boston Marathoners brought the spirit of Boston to the
world."
"The Boston Marathon is a tradition in this city; it is the oldest, the
toughest and the most iconic. We're proud to be part of the race's history
and community impact as part of our 35-year partnership," said Marianne
Harrison, President and CEO of John Hancock. "Although this year's race was
different, runners came together to cross their own finish lines and
collectively lift up each other and the non-profits they represent. The
$400 million milestone is an example of what's possible when we come
together to foster healthier, more equitable communities, and we thank
everyone who made this milestone a reality."
Every year, the B.A.A. provides each non-profit associated with the
Official Charity Program and John Hancock's Non-Profit Program with
invitational entries into the Boston Marathon. Each non-profit organization
directly manages its own application process, athlete selection, and
fundraising minimums, deadlines, and requirements.
The 124th Boston Marathon Virtual Experience featured more than 16,000
finishers from 83 countries and all 50 states. Participants had ten days to
cover 26.2-miles in one continuous run within their neighborhood to earn
their B.A.A. unicorn medal and be recognized as a Boston Marathon finisher.
The 2020 Boston Marathon, originally scheduled for April 20 and postponed
to September 14, was ultimately canceled in May due to the coronavirus
pandemic.
In 2019, a race-record $38.7 million was raised for charity, surpassing the
previous fundraising record of $38.4 million set in 2014. More information
can be found on the B.A.A. Official Charity Program and the John Hancock
Non-Profit Program.
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