Our impact
Thanks to the dedication of our runners, sponsors, and volunteers, this long-standing island tradition continues to inspire endurance, unity, and care that reaches far beyond race day.
THE CENTER OF IT ALL SINCE 1972
The 18 Mile Run & 12K Run/Walk is more than a race, it’s a community tradition that makes a real difference.
Every step taken and every mile completed helps support the mission of St. Francis Community Center, the proud organizer of this event and a vital resource for Long Beach Island and Southern Ocean County since 1972.
Proceeds from the race directly sustain the Center’s essential programs, from youth and family services to food assistance, counseling, senior programs, and community outreach. When you run, volunteer, or sponsor, you’re not just part of a race , you’re helping your neighbors thrive.
Impact Highlights
Empowering Lives
Provided essential care and counseling services to 3,020 senior citizens.
Equipped 310 individuals aged 16-75 with job-readiness skills through training programs.
Offered year-round childcare for families working in the local tourism industry, supporting LBI and Southern Ocean County communities.
Nourishing Families
Ensured food security for 250 families with weekly support throughout the year.
Shared holiday warmth through Thanksgiving meals for 250 families and Christmas gifts for over 600 children and 250 families.
Supporting Mental Well-Being
Delivered crucial counseling services to over 5,000 individuals facing mental health challenges, abuse, assault, and perinatal needs.
Impact Highlights
Supporting sexual abuse survivors with 24/7 hotline assistance and ER accompaniment.
Providing food security for 280 families monthly and 500 families during holiday drives.
Empowering parents through successful parenting programs.
Offering low-income family counseling, with over 5,000 sessions provided this year.
Helping children thrive through licensed pre-school, extended-day programs, and summer camps.
Caring for seniors, serving over 3,000 residents aged 60+ with supportive services.
Funding workforce training and education for 250 clients.
Easing financial burdens with energy, rent, and auto assistance for 150 clients.
Creating opportunities for fitness and recreation programs for all ages, with scholarships available.
Strengthening community through volunteer opportunities and outreach.
Together, we can continue changing lives in Southern Ocean County. Donate today!
| Recreation
| Aquatics
| Counseling Services
| Children's Services
| Senor Services
| Family Support
| Educational & Career Services
| Recreation | Aquatics | Counseling Services | Children's Services | Senor Services | Family Support | Educational & Career Services
Hear it from others we help
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I Thank ALL The Staff at St. Francis Community Center on Long Beach Island for doing a Great Job helping people and their families in need with their Food Bank and many other services. Thank You!
- Bill H.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
It was my first time at the food pantry and they were great! Nice friendly staff and helped me out in a time of need!
-Debeborah C.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
St. Francis has been such an amazing support to the community for as long as I have been around ❤they have helped many families in many ways.
-Christine H.
