HOUSTON – The Chevron Houston Marathon’s Run for a Reason charity program raised $2.2 million to benefit 60 charities, the Houston Marathon Committee announced on Wednesday. With more than 17,000 donations, the 2012-2013 season marks the third year in a row that fundraising has surpassed the $2 million mark.

“The Chevron Houston Marathon Run for a Reason Program surpassed the $2 million fundraising plateau for the third consecutive year, and this achievement is a testament to the charitable nature of the City of Houston and the amazing fundraising efforts of our participants,” said Wade Morehead, Executive Director of the Houston Marathon Committee.  “The 60 official charities and their tireless staffs should be congratulated for their year-round efforts as well, and we again look forward to hearing the amazing stories of how these funds are immediately directed to support each of their causes.”

Since the program’s inception in 1995, almost $17 million has been raised to benefit various charities. Since breaking the $1 million fundraising mark in 2008, the number of fundraisers and charity donations has more than tripled and generated $10.7 million. 2012-2013 saw more Fundraising Teams and Sidewalk Squad Sponsorships than ever before.

The Run for a Reason program links runners with participating nonprofits and provides a platform for charities to raise awareness and funds as well as educate others about their cause. The program also offers alternative ways to enter the marathon and half marathon races through “Heroes” charity registration and “Fundraise for Registration” options. Details about the Run for a Reason program can be found at https://www.chevronhoustonmarathon.com/RunForAReasonInfo.cfm.

Official 2013-2014 Run for a Reason charities will be announce on May 9, 2013. Guaranteed “HERO” and “Fundraising for Registration” entries will be available beginning on May 30, 2013.

The 42nd running of the Chevron Houston Marathon, Aramco Houston Half Marathon will take place on January 19, 2014, while the ABB 5K will be run on Saturday, January 18, 2014. Lottery registration for the marathon and half marathon opens on June 5, 2013 at www.chevronhoustonmarathon.com.