Here's how the 2024 Gaston Community Foundation run went

On April 13, more than 800 Gaston County community enthusiasts participated in the Gaston Community Foundation’s annual run.

According to the foundation’s community engagement officer Lauren Vanacore, the fundraiser went well this year despite slightly lower numbers compared to last year.

Each year Gaston County non-profits apply to participate in the run to raise funds for their cause.

Nonprofits that are approved to participate must register a runner or walker to represent their organization and provide one volunteer to help make the run happen.

This year, 146 nonprofits participated in the run.

Organizations are responsible for promoting their cause and getting people to donate to the fundraiser.

The Gaston Community Foundation will then match a certain percent of the funds raised by each nonprofit using the match fund, which is partially fueled by entry fees local runners pay to participate in the event.

The foundation does not yet have a number available on how much money was raised since the donation window is still open until April 22, but in total, they have raised $20 million for local organizations through the run since it started in the early 2000s, Vanacore said.

“We’re really proud of the run. It’s been a great way to stay connected to the nonprofits in the community,” she said. Vanacore added that those interested in making a donation can visit www.cfgaston.org.