CENTREVILLE, Va. -- The idea of running a marathon for the first time is a daunting prospect.

But one Prince William County man, who signed up for this year's Wirefly National Marathon, has found his motivation by making his run a mission of sorts.

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Neil Craigan is the associate pastor at Centreville Presbyterian Church.

He once traveled to Africa and what he experienced changed his outlook.

"I visited a World Vision center there and held a baby, swollen with malnutrition, and changed something in my DNA makeup and I was never able to look at world poverty in the same light since then," said Craigan.

Now he is running for "Team World Vision." The money he raises from pledges will provide food and shelter for some of the estimated 15 million AIDS orphans worldwide and their families.

Craigan hopes to raise $2,620, which translates to $100 a mile.

Craigan's Web site reveals he has nearly reached his fundraising goal.

Even his kids have gotten involved, donating the $40 and 11 cents in the spare change jar.

In addition to fundraising for World Vision, Craigan also began running last April with his health in mind

"I wasn't hugely overweight to begin with but enough to feel like a couch potato," he said.

He started small with a 5K, then the Virginia Beach half marathon and in October decided the timetable was right to try the Wirefly National Marathon.

He's lost 35 pounds in the process and discovered the spiritual benefits to running as well.

"I've found great pleasure in the long runs," he said.