Marathon Foundation Gives $7.2M Back to California Town

While thousands of runners chase personal records along California's stunning coastline each spring, the real race happening in Monterey County has nothing to do with finish times.

The Big Sur Marathon Foundation transforms every registration fee and race donation into something far more lasting than a medal. Since 1986, they've poured $7.2 million back into their community through youth running programs, nonprofit partnerships, and wellness initiatives that strengthen Monterey County year-round.

This year's giving will exceed $650,000. Local volunteer groups will receive over $432,000 for race support, while a new Community Grants program distributes another $219,000 to organizations working across the county.

But the foundation's most powerful investment might be happening inside the Monterey County Juvenile Hall. For the second year, incarcerated youth are training for an official half marathon, running 124 laps around their yard over five months.

Fifteen participants between ages 16 and 23 worked with coach Justin Garcia to complete the challenge this year. Foundation volunteers tracked every single lap, clicking counters as the young runners circled the yard again and again.

"We're helping these young people build confidence, resilience, and a belief that they can accomplish more than they ever imagined," says Jennifer Edwards, the foundation's executive director. The program plants seeds that organizers hope will grow into lifelong healthy choices and self-belief.

The Ripple Effect

The foundation's community engagement reaches nearly 200 children daily through its partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Monterey County. Summer programming uses movement and teamwork to build confidence and belonging, welcoming every student regardless of athletic ability.

Beyond youth programs, the foundation partners with the American Red Cross Northern California Coastal Region on blood drives and CPR training at race expos. Their collaboration earned them the 2026 Red Cross Community Engagement Award.

Community Engagement Manager Bertrand Newson sees the bigger picture clearly: "We use movement, games, and physical activity as tools to build confidence, healthy habits, teamwork, leadership, and a sense of belonging."

After 40 years of turning race day into community transformation, the Big Sur Marathon Foundation proves that the most meaningful finish lines are the ones that mark new beginnings.