Plans set for 38th annual Charleroi Little Great Race

The Little Great Race is held annually on the first Saturday after Labor Day.

For the MVI

Runners and walkers are preparing to come together for a day of camaraderie in Charleroi next month.

The 38th annual Charleroi Little Great Race 5K run and walk is set for Sept. 6 at the Charleroi Chamber Plaza, near Trustees Park. Festivities begin at 7 a.m., with the race starting at 8:15 a.m.

Event organizers announced that cfsbank has once again stepped forward as the race sponsor for the 2025 event, marking seven consecutive years of dedicated support.

“At cfsbank, our mission has always been about more than banking — it’s about investing in our neighbors and ensuring the communities that we serve continue to thrive,” said Danielle Maurer, chief operating officer and chief retail officer at cfsbank. “The Charleroi Little Great Race is such a powerful example of community spirit, and we are honored to support an event that brings people together while giving back to essential local organizations.”

“We are proud to continue our partnership with the Charleroi Little Great Race,” added John Gill, president and CEO of cfsbank. “This event is a celebration of community, tradition, and giving back — values that align perfectly with who we are as a bank. Supporting the race means supporting the Mon Valley, and that is something we will always stand behind.”

Each year, proceeds from the Charleroi Little Great Race are donated to organizations that provide vital services throughout the Mon Valley. In the 38 years the race has existed, it is estimated that more than $100,000 has been donated back to local communities and organizations.

This year’s race beneficiaries are:

• Charleroi Area School District Harvest Bounty Food Program.

• Rostraver West Newton Emergency Services.

• Charleroi Volunteer Fire Department.

• Charleroi Regional Police Department.

• Washington City Mission.

• Life Changing Service Dogs for Veterans Inc.

Beyond its charitable mission, the Charleroi Little Great Race continues to be a cornerstone community event, drawing hundreds of participants and supporters to downtown Charleroi.

“The Little Great Race is much more than running,” said Mark Alterici, president of the Charleroi Little Great Race. “It’s about giving back, building community pride, and supporting organizations that serve our residents every day. Each mile run has a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the finish line.”

Alterici also addressed concerns surrounding ongoing projects affecting roads in downtown Charleroi.

“We’ve been working closely with Columbia Gas and local borough officials, and we want all participants to feel confident that the course will be safe. We have been assured that road work will not impact the event, and safety remains our top priority.”

Organizers note that the event’s success is made possible each year through the generosity of sponsors and donors whose contributions ensure that the race continues to thrive and its beneficiaries receive meaningful support.

The first 400 participants are guaranteed a custom commemorative T-shirt and race bag. The top three male/ female runners and walkers will receive awards in each age category.

For more details or to register for the race, go to https://runsignup.com/Race/ PA/Charleroi/CharleroiLittleGreatRace.