Manassas, VA – The Didlake Foundation announced that is has been accepted as a Charity Partner in this year’s Marine Corps Marathon, scheduled for October 25, 2009.  “Team Didlake” will field up to 25 runners in the nation’s 5th largest marathon event, each of whom will pledge to raise $950 for The Didlake Foundation — a not-for-profit corporation that creates opportunities that enrich the lives of people with disabilities.  Team Didlake runners will be supported with a complimentary training program, nutrition and motivational support, and assistance with fundraising.  Prizes will be awarded to team members who exceed their fundraising goals.
Registration for the event, also known as “The People’s Marathon”, is officially closed with 30,000 runners signed up to participate.  However a limited number of registrations are still available via the more than 75 proud Marine Corp Charity Partners, including Team Didlake.
Andrew Clarke, Didlake’s Director of Community Services, has completed 2 consecutive Marine Corps Marathons and will serve as Team Didlake’s Training Coordinator.  “The sense of accomplishment, pride and patriotism that you feel as you are running among these beautiful monuments with thousands of people cheering you on is like nothing else you will ever experience.” said Clarke.  “Add to that the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities, some of whom are living with challenges that make running a marathon seem like child’s play, and you have a truly life-changing event.”  Clarke is planning a series of training runs at various scenic locations throughout Northern Virginia, and wants people to know that marathon running is not just for elite, experienced runners.  “I firmly believe that anyone who is basically healthy and willing to make time in their lives to commit to a training schedule can complete a marathon.  You don’t need a certain body type and you don’t need to be a fitness fanatic — what you do need is a good pair of shoes and a willingness to try.  I’m here to tell you, it can be done and it is a lot of fun!”
Several Didlake staff members and colleagues from other local agencies have already signed on to Team Didlake.  Members of the public are invited to join.  The Didlake organization is promoting Team Didlake as more than a fundraising opportunity.  “It’s an opportunity for us to work on something together while getting healthy, having fun and raising awareness about our mission,” said Betty Dean, Executive Director of The Didlake Foundation.  “We’re really hoping that the community will jump in and help out our runners by donating money, training supplies and of coure, moral support!”
Those interested in learning more about Team Didlake and the Marine Corps Marathon, or who wish to sign up for Team Didlake, may contact Lori Portillo at 703-361-4195, ext. 1313 or e-mail[email protected].
About The Didlake Foundation
The Didlake Foundation is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to support the programs and services of Didlake, Inc.  It encourages philanthropic support for Didlake programs and services as well as special projects, such as building and capital expansion.
About Didlake
Didlake, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation headquartered in Manassas, Virginia. It was founded in 1965 to create opportunities for people with disabilities through services that connect them to employment, education and the community. It provides contract business services for grounds and facilities maintenance; packaging and assembly; and administrative services. Federal government agency customers include the Pentagon, Department of Treasury, Department of Energy, Peace Corps, Navy Exchange Service Command Headquarters and many more. Didlake is an approved vendor for various local government agencies, including the Prince William County Community Services Board, and is a United Way agency.
About the Marine Corps Marathon
Votes “Best Marathon for Families”, the Marine Corp Marathon continues a combined tradition of dedication, sportsmanship and patriotism.  Runners from all walks of life have participated in the world’s largest marathon not to offer prize money, deservingly earning the nickname “The People’s Marathon.”  The 34th Marine Corps Marathon will be held on October 25, 2009 in Arlington, VA.  No federal or Marine Corps endorsement implied.  For more information go towww.marinemarathon.com.
Contact:
Betty Dean
[email protected]