The Boilermaker Road Race in Utica is known for being “more than a race.” There are events held all year, including charitable efforts. One of those is the Charity Bib program.

“A charity bib partner will go out and say, ‘You can run the Boilermaker for free if you raise $500 for our organization'," Boilermaker President Mark Donovan explained.

The bib program focuses on around 10 local nonprofits dedicated to helping people improve their lives.

The nonprofits can change each year.

About 120 bibs went out this year, meaning about $60,000 has been raised for charity. It supports local causes and gives runners a chance to enter the Boilermaker, even after caps have been met.

“Giving back to the community and the local organizing nonprofits that need the help. We’re able to give back to them, which, in turn, gives back to the community. So I think it’s a win-win-win situation," said Boilermaker Race Director Jim Stasaitis.

“Over the years, I think over $600,000 has been raised for these organizations. It’s important for people to note that all those transactions are directly between the charity bib runner and the organization," Donovan said.

The Boilermaker’s Charity Bib program has been going on for more than a decade. Boilermaker officials said nonprofits request bibs in January. Then they seek and find folks until the spots are filled.

Sometimes, that can be as late as June.

Again, the program is separate from typical registration. That means if caps are filled, a runner can still sign up for the Boilermaker through this program and support a nonprofit.

But again, there is a $500 donation requirement.