Gastonia – April 21
By LeeAnn Harris, race director
There are many sporting events that raise money for good causes, but few can say they make life better for an entire county by supporting more than 100 nonprofit organizations as part of their event. Run for the Money, sponsored by the Community Foundation of Gaston County, is such a race. Celebrating its 10th year, the run has raised more than $10 million for nonprofits in Gaston County, N.C.
“Our company loves to support the Run for the Money because it combines an exciting and well-run 5k with a great opportunity to raise money for hundreds of nonprofits in our community,” said Rusty Harris, president and chief operating officer of PSNC Energy.
The unique program allows local nonprofits to reach out to donors during a two-month period. Funds raised are matched by the Community Foundation’s Match Fund, allowing individuals, businesses, churches and civic groups to make a bigger impact with their donations.
Girls on the Run of Gaston County, one of the 124 participating nonprofits in Run for the Money this year, likes participating in the event for multiple reasons. According to the executive director, Kathleen Boyce, “As part of our program in Gaston our participants complete both a practice 5k and an end-of-season run. The Run for the Money serves as our practice 5k and has been critical to the growth and financial sustainability of our program.
“Our participation in the run has resulted in tremendous community awareness of Girls on the Run and an increased demand for the program at schools and sites throughout Gaston County,” said Boyce.
A certified 5k run with chip timing, the 2011 Run for the Money had more than 1,700 runners who braved the elements to compete for prize money awarded to participating nonprofits on their behalf. Top male and female winners delivered $1,000 to their favorite causes and $10,500 in additional winnings was divided among various age groups in both male and female categories.
The course starts in downtown Gastonia and winds through the beautiful York Chester historic neighborhood. Streets are lined with cheering neighbors and friends through the entire route. There is a 2k walk for all ages. Children will enjoy games in the Kids Zone. Spectators will be entertained by the karaoke competition between 20 of the participating nonprofit organizations and can also visit booths set up by participants and sponsors that feature educational materials and fun giveaways.
Whether you’re a veteran runner who enjoys a well-run 5k along a charming, tree-lined route, or someone who enjoys supporting a good cause and being fit at the same time, Run for the Money 10 is an event unlike any other that runners need to check out on April 21 in downtown Gastonia.
To donate, register or learn more visit www.cfgaston.org.
