• The Boilermaker Charity Bib Program presented by Wolfspeed raised $61,150 for local nonprofits in 2025.

• The program has raised over $800,000 for local nonprofit organizations since its inception in 2013.

• Applications for the 2026 program will be available at boilermaker.com from October 13 to November 21.

UTICA, N.Y. (August 19, 2025) – Boilermaker officials announced today that the 2025 Boilermaker Charity Bib Program presented by Wolfspeed raised $61,150 for participating nonprofit organizations. Eleven local organizations were selected to participate via an application process overseen by an independent committee, representing causes including cancer research, animal welfare, suicide prevention, and more.

The Charity Bib Program provides free bibs for either the Boilermaker 15K presented by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield or 5K presented by Utica National Insurance Group in exchange for fundraising efforts. Funds raised directly support programs and services designed to enhance the lives of community members in Oneida, Herkimer, Madison, and Onondaga counties.

“Each year, we receive applications from incredible organizations doing critical work in our community,” said Vikki Townsend, Community Outreach & Marketing Manager for the Boilermaker. “Being able to play a role in their fundraising efforts is an honor for the Boilermaker organization.”

The Boilermaker Charity Bib Program began in 2013 as a way to give back to the community and provide a unique method of entry – and inspiration – to runners. Countless runners have taken on the challenge of running the Boilermaker motivated by their support of an organization or important cause. The program has raised over $800,000 for area nonprofits over the last 12 years.

Nonprofit organizations interested in participating in 2026 must fill out an application. Applications will be available at boilermaker.com starting Monday, October 13, and must be submitted by Friday, November 21. A third-party committee will review all applications and allocate available bibs, which selected organizations can use to incentivize fundraising. Runners must raise a minimum of $500 to earn their bib for either the 15K or 5K races, in-person or virtual.

The Charity Bib Program is one of several Community Outreach Programs offered by the Boilermaker. Other programs include the Access Program presented by Wolfspeed, which provides free entries and assistance with footwear to those with financial restrictions in Oneida County, and the Community Garden, which provides produce for Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen. The Boilermaker also offers youth fitness programming throughout the year.

For more information or to be notified when Charity Bib Program applications are available, please visit boilermaker.com.