Maine Marathon names three nonprofits as 2025 race beneficiaries

Courtesy/Kevin Morris Runners competing in the 2024 Maine Marathon in Portland

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In Her Presence is among three nonprofits that will each receive $20,000 in proceeds from the Maine Marathon, which will be run Oct. 5.

The others are Springvale-based Grahamtastic Connection, which provides free laptops, tablets and internet access to seriously ill children; and Portland-based Children’s Odyssey, which offers early childhood education and care, focusing on children from diverse backgrounds.

In Her Presence supports immigrant families by providing opportunities for cross-cultural and business connections, as well as a range of educational opportunities that facilitate integration into the Maine community.

Claudette Ndayininahaze, the Westbrook-based nonprofit’s founder and executive director, was recently named a Mainebiz Business Leader of the Year.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Maine Marathon for this opportunity to expand our impact,” Ndayininahaze said. “Our work goes beyond programs — it transforms lives and strengthens our community’s well-being."

The Maine Marathon, Half Marathon and Relay are organized by the Maine Track Club and are sponsored by Maine Community Bank. Since its founding in 1997, the event has raised close to $8 million for Maine charities.

In 2024 the event donated proceeds to Maine Paws for Veterans, the Percival Baxter Foundation, Riding to the Top, Strong Girls United, Maine Senior Games and Saltwater Classroom.

The Maine Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier, and starts and ends in Portland’s Back Cove.