AKRON-CANTON REGIONAL FOODBANK NAMED AS OFFICIAL CHARITY
AKRON, O.H. (March 19, 2025) — The Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation, organizers of the Akron Marathon Race Series presented by Summa Health, proudly welcomes back National Interstate Insurance Company (National Interstate) as the presenting sponsor of the National Interstate 8K & 1 Mile, taking place June 27–28. With just 100 days until race weekend, planning is in full swing.
New this year, the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank has been named the official charity partner for the event, strengthening the race’s mission to give back to the community. Participants and supporters will have the opportunity to contribute to the Foodbank’s critical efforts in fighting hunger across the region.
National Interstate has been a longstanding supporter of the Akron Marathon Race Series, reinforcing its commitment to health, wellness, and community engagement.
“National Interstate’s continued involvement reflects the incredible support from our community’s leading organizations, ensuring the Akron Marathon Race Series continues to inspire and unite our city,” said Anne Bitong, president and CEO of the Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation. “With dedicated sponsors like National Interstate, Summa Health, FirstEnergy, and The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., we’re able to create an unforgettable racing experience that celebrates Akron and promotes health, wellness, and community pride.”
As part of this year’s initiative, National Interstate is expanding its involvement by using the race as a nationwide employee engagement opportunity, encouraging its team members to participate in whichever way might interest them, whether it be racing, being a race day volunteer, or fundraising to support the official charity partner.
“We are excited to once again support the Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation and the Akron community by sponsoring the 2025 National Interstate 8K & 1 Mile,” said Shawn Los, president and COO at National Interstate. “This year, we’re taking it a step further challenging our employees across the country to walk, run, volunteer, and raise funds to fight hunger in our community. “
The National Interstate 8K & 1 Mile is part of Akron’s Bicentennial celebration of events. To register, volunteer, or learn more about the Akron Marathon Race Series presented by Summa Health, visit AkronMarathon.org.
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About the Akron Marathon Race Series
The Akron Marathon Race Series is organized by the Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation, a nonprofit group founded in 2002 to provide a world-class marathon and other events that promote health and fitness, stimulate the local economy, galvanize the community, and benefit charitable organizations. The series features race dates in June (National Interstate 8k & 1 Mile) and August (Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k), culminating with the 23rd running of the FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon, Team Relay & Kids Fun Run in September. Additional information is available at AkronMarathon.org or by calling (330) 434-2RUN (2786).
About National Interstate Insurance Company
An Insurance Experience Built Around You
Founded in 1986, National Interstate Insurance Company, is a leading specialty property and casualty insurance company, providing highly innovative insurance solutions and world-class customer service for a variety of commercial transportation industries. Headquartered in Richfield, OH, the company employs over 800 people and has been recognized for years as a “Best Place to Work”, centered around its company values of integrity, transparency, fairness, accountability, empowerment and collaboration.
National Interstate is a member of Great American Insurance Group. The members of Great American Insurance Group are subsidiaries of American Financial Group, Inc. (AFG). AFG’s common stock is listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AFG.