Mumbai, January 16, 2024: The 19th edition of Asia’s most prestigious Marathon event, the Tata Mumbai Marathon (TMM) has witnessed an unprecedented achievement, as 267 NGOs collectively raised a record-breaking INR 58 crores, reaffirming its status as India's largest sporting platform for philanthropy. The success of this endeavour is attributed to the collaborative efforts with United Way Mumbai (UWM), the event's esteemed Philanthropy Partner.
In its role as the Philanthropy Partner, UWM has played a pivotal role in building capacities of partnering non-profits to raise funds and awareness for their projects. UWM ensures a transparent, cause-neutral, level-playing field by providing a robust digital platform. UWM maximizes the fundraising opportunities of the limited running spots available at TMM and distributes them equitably between the NGOs.
The evolution of philanthropy at TMM is remarkable, progressing from a cumulative total of INR 43 Lacs by 12 NGOs in the inaugural edition, to surpassing INR 400 crores today, benefiting over 750 NGOs.
George Aikara, CEO, United Way Mumbai, said, “I would like to congratulate all the participating NGOs for the remarkable philanthropic success of the Tata Mumbai Marathon. We have been the Philanthropy Partner of the TMM since 2009 and have witnessed the marathon's evolution into a strong catalyst of social impact. The participation of 12,000 individuals this year and a record-breaking fundraising effort, highlights the marathon's unique ability to engage and inspire. The funds and awareness raised through TMM will allow our NGO partners to lend a helping hand and make a lasting impact.”
Manisha Khemlani, CEO, Central Chinmaya Mission Trust said, “The secret sauce of my success is my family, my team. My mission is my family and being the CEO of the organisation, I am fortunate enough to be participating in raising funds for the marathon. We work to raise funds for education, starving children and more. Swami Chinmaya Ji, the founder believed that a child spends a lot of time in school and the values that are given in school are very important. We have a four pillar system, we look at the physical, mental, intellectual and spiritual personality of the child. Interestingly, about 45% of our 82 schools are either in remote areas or in this two tier cities. Thanks to the support of the Tata Mumbai marathon and Procam who help us reach out to over 600 children with scholarships solely because of the awareness and the opportunity to raise funds. I'm very grateful to Procam International, United Way of Mumbai for giving us this opportunity to combine fitness and fundraising.”
Mira Joshi, Cuddles Foundation Nayi Disha Resource Centre, Family Planning Association India, said "Speaking on the occasion Mira Joshi said, When I was younger I saw my dad raising funds every single year. He used to tell me how he helped different people and the things that he had done. When I turn 12, I could qualify for the dream run. I decided that I too wanted to help people. My father was my inspiration."