We are proud to be a member of the 2024 Bank of America Boston Marathon® Official Charity Program®. Over the past eight years, our running teams have fundraised to support our programs that address youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Our 2024 Team Members each have a connection to our local communities and an understanding of our mission and work.
You can help support our team by cheering them on, saying hello when they train at our Framingham Branch, and donating to their fundraising pages.
WHY THEY RUN
In our area, we see many different barriers youth and families face to reach their full potential. Food insecurity is at approximately 19% in households with children. Those numbers are significantly higher for Black/Latinx/Multiracial families at approximately 35%. Early learning and preschool programs cost an average of $15,000 a year, making quality educational programs out of reach for many families. Youth in our community are experiencing poor mental health. Chronic diseases continue to impact families, from individual quality of life to long-term financial strain on the community, especially in low-income and underserved communities. Drownings have increased over the past few years despite being preventable. And many of us, from youth to older adults, experience social isolation.
It is not enough to know these issues exist, it is critical that we act together to strengthen our community. Our Y works with partners, volunteers, and community members to build and deliver programs that address these issues. And because of generous supporters, we can open our doors to all.
“I first started running at the Y, so it is a great full-circle moment to be on the Boston Marathon team and raise money for a place I care about a lot.”
Kristen Bahr
“The sense of purpose I gained from a lifetime of involvement with the Y, combined with opportunities for a quality education or summer camp experience, fuels my deep motivation to be a part of this team and community.”
Jackson DeWitt
“My wife ran for the YMCA Team last year. I got to witness firsthand what a wonderful experience she had and would love to raise money for such a great organization.”
Rory Gardner
"Running for the MetroWest YMCA is the best way to support his community and ALL of the members in it."
- Brandon Graska
“I am eager to be part of a team that actively contributes to the betterment of the community. It allows me to directly support programs that benefit local youth, families, and seniors.”
Nate Hoffman
“Having helped many students navigate significant mental health challenges, I would be honored to run for an establishment that supports my life's work of supporting those in need.”
Danielle Hopkins
"The Y uses food as an educational mechanism. Its cooking classes teach healthy habits through a cultural lens. And its food distribution program is amazing.”
Usha Narayana
“I understand the importance of a supportive community, safe environment, and physical and artistic outlets. I am so grateful that the MetroWest YMCA provides access to physically and mentally empowering activities and support for underserved populations.“
Jessica Perry
“This is an opportunity to promote the YMCA's initiative in the community. As the frontman of an established band, The Newtalians, I am looking forward to using that platform to raise awareness and fundraise.”
Diego Puppin
"I want to provide opportunities and resources for everyone to lead healthier lives and continue growing a strong, inclusive community for all."
Lin Zhuo