The 2021 Gorham Savings Bank Maine Marathon, Half Marathon, and Relay exceeded expectations by raising a record-breaking $430,000 for nearly 40 area nonprofits. The unexpected, additional revenue allowed race organizers to brighten the holiday season for Camp Susan Curtis with a gift of $20,000.

“This funding will give Maine children in need the opportunity to go to camp – and not just any camp, but a camp that provides them with essential support to explore their interests, helps them build confidence, and gives them a safe space to leave their worries behind and just be kids”, said Kathryn Pierce, Executive Director of Camp Susan Curtis. “We are deeply grateful for the support of the Gorham Savings Bank Maine Marathon.”

Described as the “most beautiful summer camp in New England,” and located in Stoneham, Camp Susan Curtis provides transformative summer camping experiences for Maine children facing economic hardship. It’s designed to nurture self-confidence and a sense of belonging for Maine kids, which is particularly critical as the pandemic persists. “Camp Susan Curtis helped me realize I have a place in the world,” said Brandon, a recent camper.

Camp Susan Curtis, a program of the Susan L. Curtis Foundation, will stay on board as the first of four beneficiaries for the 2022 race. Each year, the volunteer organizers of the Gorham Savings Bank Maine Marathon select a group of charitable organizations in the community to receive proceeds from the race. The selected organizations benefit directly from the race registration fee.

The 2021 race beneficiaries included Teens to Trails, Wayside Food Programs, Team Long Run, Port Resources, Pihcintu Multinational Girls Chorus, Shawnee Peak Adaptive and Spurwink.

“Being back in-person in a safe event was overwhelmingly appreciated by runners, volunteers and spectators,” said Bob Dunfey, volunteer race director. “The event’s record-breaking fundraising is icing on the cake! We’re so proud to say that The Gorham Savings Bank Maine Marathon, with the help of its volunteers and runners, has raised almost $6 million for local nonprofits since 1997.”

Runner donations totaled over $13,000, nearly doubled from 2019, with 50% more runners contributing. Through the Marathon’s new charity bib program, almost 10 charities each raised between $3,000 to over $17,000. The Marr Alzheimer’s Research Fund raised over $270,000. The Maine Marathon welcomes any charitable organization to participate in the bib program in 2022.

“This gift is a testament to the generosity of the community we live in,” said Gorham Savings Bank president and CEO, Steve deCastro. “What a great way to kick-off the holiday season!”

Maine-based nonprofits interested in being considered as a 2022 beneficiary can apply online now through December 31 at mainemarathon.com/get-involved/beneficiary-application/. Eligible causes include children, health, wellness, and the environment. The remaining 2022 nonprofit beneficiaries will be announced in February.

The Gorham Savings Bank Maine Marathon will take place on Sunday, October 2, 2022. Visit mainemarathon.com to register.