Sometimes, in order to accomplish a feat as large as a marathon, one needs outside inspiration. A larger source of motivation. A reason to keep going mile after mile, step after step.
26 Miles for 26 Charities is the philanthropy program of the Livestrong Austin Marathon and Half Marathon, for which runners pledge to run and raise money on behalf of a participating charity. In the past five years, the program has raised over $1.2 million for Austin-area nonprofits.
“Our vision for this race is to use running as a tool to help communities and individuals reach their goals,” said John Conley, race director, in a press release. “By signing up to raise money for one of these organizations that has a direct impact in our city, participants are doing both at the same time.”
The relationship between the two groups is one that keeps on giving: The charities are also present on the race course, giving back to the runners in the form of water, electrolytes and roaring cheers. The relationship between the two groups is one that continues to sustain itself through mutual admiration.
To either run (better hit that pavement stat) or volunteer, visit www.youraustinmarathon.com. Or take a peek at the list of participating nonprofits and volunteer at any time, marathon or not.
- ACTIVE Life
- The ALS Association Texas Chapter*
- American Lung Association*
- Blue Dog Rescue
- Cancer Connection*
- Capital of Texas Team Survivor
- Caring Family Network
- Colin’s Hope
- College Forward*
- Comfort Crew for Military Kids*
- Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America
- CureDuchenne
- Hand to Hold
- Hope Chapel*
- LIVESTRONG
- Odyssey School
- Pancreatic Cancer Action Network
- Parkside Community School*
- Rexanna’s Foundation for Fighting Lung Cancer*
- Round Rock ISD Project Graduation 5K
- Superhero Kids
- Susan G. Komen Marathon for the Cure Benefiting the Komen Austin Affiliate
- Sustainable Food Center
- Without Regrets*
An asterisk indicates a newly participating charity. The marathon takes place in Austin on February 17.
