Boston Marathon Charity Runners Gear Up for Life-Changing Challenge

BOSTON, Massachusetts — As the Boston Marathon approaches, over 3,200 runners are preparing to tackle the iconic race, not only for personal achievement but for meaningful charitable contributions. This year, 176 nonprofits have teams participating, and they’re expected to raise upwards of $45.7 million.

Chris Morris, Food and Travel editor at the Globe, shares his admiration for the courageous individuals setting out to run the marathon while fundraising for causes they passionately support. With personal experience running marathons for charity, he understands the dedication needed for this significant commitment.

Many charity participants, like Morris’s siblings who ran for Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, face substantial fundraising goals—often in the thousands. Murray Campbell, who manages public relations for the Boston Athletic Association, notes that the minimum required fundraising amount fluctuates depending on the organization, sometimes reaching $10,000 or more.

“It’s not just about running the marathon,” Morris writes. “The mental and emotional toll of fundraising adds another layer of challenge. The pressure to meet these goals can be overwhelming.”

Last year, each runner averaged raising about $14,281, a figure that highlights the immense effort put forth not only in training but also in fundraising initiatives. Leading up to the marathon, runners often devise various creative fundraising ideas, from bake sales to sponsored events.

The effort is not without its challenges. For instance, if runners fail to meet their fundraising minimum, they are responsible for the shortfall, which can lead to financial strain.

As the final stretches of fundraising take place, Morris encourages and supports those taking on this dual challenge. “Your commitment to pushing through the miles while raising substantial amounts for charity deserves recognition,” he says. “We are all cheering you on.”

The Boston Athletic Association anticipates that the energy and enthusiasm surrounding the marathon will bolster its fundraising efforts even further this year. As runners finalize their training regimens, they can also look forward to an accompanying playlist created by the Globe, designed to help them stay motivated during their training sessions.

Every step taken along the Boston Marathon route not only signifies personal goals achieved but represents the collective impact these runners will have on their chosen charities. “Each mile means something,” Morris emphasizes. “And we are grateful for your perseverance and dedication.”