Mini with a Meaning Program

The Mini with a Meaning program connects non-profit organizations to passionate participants of the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K, providing a more meaningful experience by raising awareness and funds in support of the local community and beyond. Not to mention, all Mini-Marathon and 5K registrations support the 500 Festival's free youth and educational programming.

Participants may further their impact within the community by joining a Mini with a Meaning team! View our official teams below, contact their Team Captain to join, and start fundraising as you train.

The deadline to request to join the Mini with a Meaning Program is April 19, 2026.

Register!

How Do I Get My Nonprofit Involved?

Through the Mini-Marathon and 5K, the 500 Festival offers non-profit organizations the opportunity to participate as a team through the Mini with a Meaning Program to raise awareness and funds in support of their organization and participate together in the Mini-Marathon and 5K.

Organizations may utilize the fundraising platform of their choice and 100% of the proceeds will go to the respective non-profit organization. Utilize this unique fundraising opportunity to further your organization’s mission and join today!

Step 1. Choose a Team Captain: Each non-profit organization will need a Team Captain to lead their team fundraiser and to correspond with the 500 Festival.
Step 2. Enroll Organization: The Team Captain will fill out an application form here. The 500 Festival will then provide the Team Captain with further team and registration information if accepted.
Step 3. Create Online Fundraiser: The Team Captain will create a customized online fundraiser specific to the 2026 IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and the 2024 Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K. Full details to be provided by the 500 Festival.
Step 4. Get Fundraising and Build Your Team!  The Team Captain will promote team registration and fundraising efforts to staff, volunteers, family, and friends. Continue to build your team and motivate participants as they train for the Greatest Spectacle in Running!

“Our partnership with the Mini with a Meaning program has not only helped to raise funds to further our mission, it has increased awareness about our organization in the running community and beyond. When we attend other events, participants recognize us and know they saw us at the Indy Mini!”

– Ainsley’s Angels Team Captain

Questions?

For any questions about how to get involved with the Mini with a Meaning Program, please contact raceinfo@500festival.com.