Via Marathon Raises $135,450 for Children and Adults with Disabilities
November 6, 2009

BETHLEHEM, PA – More than 2,500 runners and walkers raised $135,450 in the Lehigh Valley Health Network Marathon for Via on Sunday, September 13, 2009. Two hundred and twelve teams, 1,025 marathon and half marathon runners hit the streets running, while more than 500 walkers participated in a 5K Walk to help raise money for Via of the Lehigh Valley’s programs for children and adults with disabilities.

“We are thrilled with our fundraising for this year,” said Paul Pierpoint, Via Board Member and LVHN Marathon Committee Chair.

“Our first year we raised $30,000 and last year we raised $93,000. For a third year event, we are tremendously pleased with raising $135,450, a 45% increase over last year. This is a real testament to how the Lehigh Valley has embraced this event and is committed to strengthening our community.”

While most fundraising for the LVHN Marathon for Via closed at the end of September, fundraising at Freedom High School culminated today with grade levels competing against each other in Penny Wars to see which class can raise the most money for Via. The Senior class raised the most money and will be treated to a tailgate party at the Freedom/Liberty Football game on November 7.

In addition, Freedom High School’s National Honor Society raised more than $4,200 though a combined effort that included student fundraising for the 5K walk and a district wide “Casual Jeans Friday.” Teachers across Bethlehem Area School District could “buy” the option to wear jeans on Fridays in September for $5. Freedom’s National Honor Society had 400 “buys” from teachers across the district in support of Via of the Lehigh Valley.

“Freedom High School started their school year off by deciding as a school what their purpose was this year,” said Pierpoint.

“Over the first few days of school, teachers and administrators led discussions with students to find out what they wanted their purpose to be. They covered everything from increased school spirit to striving to improve grades and work ethic. They also decided as a school that they wanted to give back, give back to their school and to their community. I’d say they are off to a great start.”

The Lehigh Valley Health Network Marathon for Via is a unique event features a five-person Team Relay, full and half Marathon, and 5K Walk. The LVHN Marathon raises funds for Via’s services for people with disabilities so they can connect and live in their communities. Via of the Lehigh Valley is a non-profit human service agency that provides services for children and adults with disabilities like autism, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. Serving the community since 1954, Via’s staff help individuals and families from birth through retirement focusing in Children’s Services, Community Connections and Employment. Visit www.ViaNet.org to learn more about Via’s services.

For more information, contact:
Lisa Walkiewicz, Communications Director
L.Walkiewicz@vianet.org | 484-893-5390