In its fourth year, The Run for Music has grown into a very successful fundraiser for the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra and its youth music-education programs.
In partnership with the local running club, Gulf Coast Runners, this professionally managed 10k race is staged from Artis—Naples’ campus in Pelican Bay. At the start of the race, the 1,000 runners and walkers are treated to the national anthem played by an enthusiastic collection of Naples Philharmonic musicians. All along the 6.1-mile course, participants hear motivating music played by casually dressed Naples Phil musicians, situated along the median of Pelican Bay Boulevard.
This event is successful for several reasons:
- Running is at an all-time high in the U.S. and is enjoyed by all ages.
- This event puts the orchestra musicians up close and personal with the public—no tuxedos allowed.
- Sponsors are given great exposure to a sizable audience through t-shirts with logos, race-day banners, orchestra and running club websites, and local media coverage.
- Race participants pay an entry or registration fee of $20-$35, depending upon when they sign-up; 500 runners x $30 = $15,000.
- The race is an opportunity to partner with another organization in the community. Aligning with a local running club is recommended. Teaming up with a local high school running program is another option.
For questions, contact Mitch Norgart, vice president of the Naples Philharmonic League, at mlnorgart@gmail.com or 239 404 7007.
For more information on this Gold Book Award-winning project, visit 10K Run for Music on the Gold Book site. For other project ideas visit Gold Book Online and search for projects of interest to you. Gold Book is a resource for successful projects dating back to 2005; it facilitates easy networking and information sharing among organizations.
Posted August 29, 2014
