Run Seal Beach to Give $156,750 to 65 Local Groups

This week, Run Seal Beach announced a record year for grants given out to 65 local community organizations and nonprofits, totaling $156,750.

The money, raised by Run Seal Beach’s annual 5K/10K will be given out to diverse groups ranging from the Los Alamitos High School Golf Booster Club to the Morale Welfare Recreation Fund at the Los Alamitos Joint Forces Training Base and PE equipment at St. Hedwig. Nearly four decades old, the race supports athletic and recreations groups and is one of the biggest donors for local nonprofits and athletic organizations. This year, Run Seal Beach gave out more money to more groups than it ever has before.

“Our primary reason for being is to not only run a great family focused race, but to generate funds which get driven right back into our community,” said Race Director Marc Loopesko in a written statement. “We are so proud to be able to say that over the last ten years we have given over $825,650 back.”

Grants this year include a large number to the Los Alamitos High School booster clubs for sports, dance and music. The entire Los Alamitos Unified School District is the major benefactor of over 47 percent of the total funds raised over the last decade. Other major recipients include the City of Seal Beach recreation department and other Seal Beach and Los Alamitos based non-profits.

Already, Run Seal Beach is planning for the 2013 run on April 13 and encouraging local groups to apply for grants again next year.

“It is unbelievable that our race has grown by 233% in the last ten years. We have people who have been running it when they were children now bringing their own children to the event,” said Elizabeth Kane, Run Seal Beach treasurer. “Our sponsorship continues to grow as more and more corporate and community partners realize what an impact we have on Seal Beach and recreation generally. We are so thankful for all of the support.”

For the complete list of this year's grant recipients, click here.