Boston Fundraising Sets New Record

There was a 16 percent increase in charitable contributions this year.

According to a release posted on Running USA, John Hancock, the title sponsor of the Boston Marathon, has announced it set a new record for fundraising through its various fundraising programs in 2013.

Specifically, nearly $8 million had been raised for this year’s 117th edition.

Each year runners who raise money through official charity programs are eligible for special bibs that allow them to forgo timed entry standards. More than 1,000 of these runners took part in this year’s race, raising money for 146 official organizations.

“The Boston Marathon is a tremendous force for good, made evident by the impact the fundraising has on our community and the causes represented in the Marathon Non-Profit Program,” said Craig Bromley the president of John Hancock. “Our employees and all non-profit runners are a source of pride each year as they dedicate their running to benefit our community partners and raise awareness in support of worthy causes throughout Greater Boston.”