USO Recruits Bachelor Contestant Matt James, Service Members, and Military Spouse for Boston Marathon® Team

ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Four runners will represent the United Service Organizations (USO) during the 126^th Boston Marathon on Apr. 18, 2022, to raise awareness and proceeds for USO programs that support the U.S. military community around the world. Participants include Matt James, a former contestant on "The Bachelor" TV show, Derek Melendez, an Army medical recruiter, Jennifer Racine, a New Bedford, MA high school teacher who also serves in the Army Reserve, and Mary Vaughn, a military spouse who has supported her husband during countless international deployments over the years.

"The USO is excited to participate in this iconic event with a strong team of runners who have experienced the impact of USO programs and services first-hand," said USO President and CEO J.D. Crouch II. "We are looking forward to cheering on a team whose values align so closely with our own."

Since 2018, the John Hancock Non-Profit Program has granted four invitational entries for the Boston Marathon to the USO. Team USO hopes to raise a total of $100,000 in donations before crossing the finish line in April this year.

"John Hancock is proud to assist the USO in keeping service members and their families strong," said Ashley Miles, Senior Manager, John Hancock. "We're thrilled to see Team USO back at the starting line for their fifth consecutive year at the Boston Marathon."

Matt James is an American television personality, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and activist most recently known for his historical role as the first Black male lead on ABC's hit show "The Bachelor" and his participation on Season 30 of "Dancing with the Stars." Matt will bring his marathon fundraising efforts into a national spotlight as one of the four runners. He shared, "I am thrilled to be running on behalf of the USO because this organization brings such important services to those who sacrifice so much to keep us safe."

Funds raised will help the USO stand beside our troops no matter where they're stationed or what mission they're assigned, through programs such as the USO Care Package Program, Bob Hope Legacy Reading Program, and Military Virtual Programming.

To continue providing essential services to our troops, the USO relies on the generous support of its partners and the American public. To donate to USO's Boston Marathon team, visit here.

Follow the USO on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates and join the conversation using #BetheForce on social media.  

About the USO
The USO strengthens America's military service members by keeping them connected to family, home, and country, throughout their service to the nation. At hundreds of locations worldwide, we are united in our commitment to connect our service members and their families through countless acts of caring, comfort, and support. The USO is a private nonprofit organization, not a government agency. Our programs, services and entertainment tours are made possible by the American people, the support of our corporate partners, and the dedication of our volunteers and staff. To join us in this important mission and learn more about the USO, please visit USO.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About John Hancock and Manulife
John Hancock is a unit of Manulife Financial Corporation, a leading international financial services provider that helps people make their decisions easier and lives better by providing financial advice, insurance, and wealth and asset management solutions. Manulife Financial Corporation trades as MFC on the TSX, NYSE, and PSE, and under 945 on the SEHK. Manulife can be found at manulife.com.

One of the largest life insurers in the United States, John Hancock supports more than ten million Americans with a broad range of financial products, including life insurance and annuities. John Hancock also supports US investors by bringing leading investment capabilities and retirement planning and administration expertise to individuals and institutions. Additional information about John Hancock may be found at johnhancock.com.

About the Marathon
From 1897-1968, the Boston Marathon was held on Patriots' Day, April 19, a holiday commemorating the start of the Revolutionary War and recognized only in Massachusetts and Maine. The lone exception was when the 19th fell on Sunday. In those years, the race was held the following day (Monday the 20th). However, in 1969, the holiday was officially moved to the third Monday in April. Since 1969 the race has traditionally been held on the third Monday in April.

Media Contact:
Dan Drummond
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202-243-8621

SOURCE USO