Sedona AZ (October 17, 2012) – The Sedona Marathon Event, which is produced by the Sedona Chamber of Commerce, is scheduled for February 2, 2013. The event includes four races: 5K, 10K, Half and Full Marathon. In 2012, the Sedona Marathon Event generated a $1.5 million economic impact on the Sedona area, generating $60,000 in sales and bed tax for the City of Sedona.
“The Sedona Marathon Event is not only a great economic generator for Sedona but it also generated money for non-profit organizations.” says Jennifer Wesselhoff, President/CEO Sedona Chamber of Commerce and Race Director. “In fact, in 2012 the Marathon generated more than $13,000.”
In 2013, engaging area youth and fundraising will be a major focus for the Sedona Chamber of Commerce thanks to a grant from the Sedona Community Foundation. The grant of $5,000 will fund “Youth Teams”. The new “Youth Teams” Program will allow Sedona Marathon staff and volunteers to work with area schools and will encourage school “teams” to train together, learn together and get fit together.
Through funding from the Sedona Community Foundation, these children will participate in the 5K Fun Run for free. This allows the schools to raise money for their organizations through donations generated per runner. We will utilize the Sedona Charter School as a model, where in 2012, 50 children, ages 6-15, participated in the Sedona Marathon Event. This event has been their primary fundraiser, generating more than $7,000 for the Sedona Charter School in 2012.
The Sedona Marathon Community Foundation funded project entitled “Youth Teams”, addresses three critical needs in the community:
- Provides registration to youth “teams” bringing local schools together to build a sense of pride and community, encouraging healthy habits and active lifestyles.
- Engages children through outreach, education and incentives to participate in this healthy local event; 5K fun-run/walk.
- Provides a fundraising mechanism for area schools.
If you are interested in becoming involved with “Youth Teams” with the Sedona Marathon Event, please contact Kegn Hall at khall@sedonachamber.com or call 928-204-1123.