Indy Monumental Marathon donates $51K to IPS education programs

INDIANAPOLIS – Several lndianapolis-area educational institutions will get a leg up on their programs thanks to the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon organization.

A total of $51,000 in proceeds were generated from the November 2009 IMM race – more than double the amount from the previous year’s event, said IMM Executive Director Julie Patterson.

Receiving $17,000 each are the Indianapolis Public Schools Education Foundation, College Summit and The Mind Trust. The Butler University’s women’s basketball program also is the recipient of a “spirit award” gift.

“All are charities that dramatically improve public education for underserved students,” Patterson said.

IMM representatives were expected to present check to officials tonight (Feb. 16) at an IPS school board meeting.

“The support IPS receives from the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon is tremendous,” said IPS Superintendent Eugene. G. White. “Thanks to this organization, IPS students are provided with uniform clothing, school supplies, and materials for the classroom to help improve student achievement. During the 2009 race, student musicians stationed along the race route helped encourage runners to push toward the finish line. It was a great opportunity to thank runners from across the globe who support our students.”

St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers has been the title sponsor of the IMM since its inaugural race in 2008. The hospital provides nearly 200 physicians, nurses, physical therapists, trainers and volunteers to assist runners during the daylong event.

Last year’s IMM brought together more than 6,000 participants from six foreign countries and 44 states.

This year’s race will step off Saturday, Nov. 6. More information about the IMM is at http://monumentalmarathon.com.

To learn more about the St. Francis Sports Medicine programs and services, visit http://www.stfrancishospitals.org/Ortho/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=4&tabid=54.