Charity

In addition to staging world-class running events, a major focus of the non-profit Big Sur International Marathon is "giving back" to the local community through grants and charitable contributions. Since its inception in 1986, the Marathon has donated more than $2,500,000 to schools and community organizations in Monterey County. Each year, approximately 90 grants and awards are distributed from the proceeds of the Big Sur International Marathon (see list below).

The Big Sur Marathon is committed to promoting fitness and healthy lifestyles.  For the past four years, this organization has focused on, and has channeled funding into, its nationally acclaimed youth fitness program, JUST RUN®.  Promoting physical activity, pride, and good citizenship, JUST RUN has several educational components, as well.  JUST RUN may be easily implemented in any locale.  Licensing opportunities are also available.  For more information, contact Susan Love at susanwlove@sbcglobal.net.

In addition to assisting Monterey Peninsula and Big Sur charities, the Big Sur International Marathon and Half Marathon on Monterey Bay offer opportunities for additional charities to use their marathon and half marathon events as “goal races” to raise money for specific causes. This year’s Half Marathon Charity Partners include Inheritance of Hope, Ronald MacDonald House, Athletes for Adoption, Run for Burma, Holy Innocents Children's Hospital, Pancreatica Walks & Runs, and Team in Training San Francisco Chapter and Monterey Bay/Silicon Valley Chapter. If you would like to learn more about these organizations, or to donate to the causes, just click on one of the links below.