Cheer on Our NYC Marathon Runners!

This November 3, five dedicated runners will take on the New York City Marathon to support Room to Grow. With every mile they run, they're helping raise crucial funds for us to provide children and families with personalized guidance, essential material resources, and community connections. We have a goal of raising $35,000 and only have $4,000 left to go! Help us reach the finish line together by donating to a runner or sponsoring our team

These runners have been training tirelessly, and their commitment to Room to Grow’s mission is nothing short of inspiring. But their journey is about more than just race day. Each runner has their own unique story and reason for joining Team Room to Grow in this iconic race. Here’s what inspires them to run for Room to Grow:

Sarah Adler

I'm running for Room to Grow because I believe in Room to Grow's mission to help families in children's critical early years. I discovered Room to Grow when I was looking for a great place to donate our children's toys and clothes that they no longer needed. Room to Grow was recommended to us and I was amazed to see the wonderful ways the organization supports families, including providing essential clothes & toys, coaching and access to community resources. Last fall, I attended the Room to Grow Gala and I was impressed hearing further about the organization's impact.

I ran the New York marathon in 2023 and it was such a rewarding experience. I am fortunate to run again this fall and support an organization I believe does such incredible work for the community.


Michael F. Laferriere

I am proud to be running the NYC Marathon for Room to Grow, an organization that for over 25 years has provided invaluable support to young families just starting out across Boston and New York, both cities of which I’ve called home.

I believe supporting children of low-income mothers not only benefits the immediate well-being of the child but also has long-term positive effects on their future prospects and bigger picture, contributes to a more equitable society. Financial stability, child development/education, health and nutrition, social equity, and reduction in poverty - these are all characteristics of a thriving society at the base level. It is an honor to be able to contribute to that in some small way. 


Andrew Lisa

I was inspired to run for Room to Grow because of the holistic message that it provides. I am running to raise funds for the direct impact of families by providing essentials such as clothing, books, and developmental toys, along with comprehensive support and guidance from professional clinicians.


Jeanne McEnerney 

As a lifelong advocate for childhood and early childhood education, I have been dedicated to children and their future success. Throughout my career, and as a mother of two, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of education and support in shaping the lives of young minds.

When I learned about Room to Grow, an organization committed to supporting infants, toddlers, and their families in underserved communities, I knew I had found a cause worth supporting. Room to Grow provides a comprehensive program that includes parental support, coaching, and essential resources to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.

What struck me most about Room to Grow is their holistic approach, recognizing the vital role of mothers and caregivers in a child's development. Room to Grow offers the perfect opportunity to support women and mothers in nurturing the next generation.

Running the NYC Marathon to raise money for this amazing organization is not just a personal challenge. It is an opportunity for me to make a difference in the lives of children and families. I am immensely proud to carry their name with me every step of the way, knowing that every mile I run is a testament to the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Through this marathon, I aim to raise awareness and funds for Room to Grow, empowering them to continue their vital work in providing support and resources to families in need. Together, we can create a brighter future for our children, one stride at a time.


Stephanie Olson

I'm running for Room to Grow because every child deserves a chance to thrive, regardless of their circumstances. Growing up, I was fortunate enough to have a supportive family and access to resources that helped to shape my future. Knowing that not all children have this opportunity inspired me to run the NYC marathon and fundraise on behalf of Room to Grow. 

Room to Grow is an impactful organization with a mission of supporting children born into low-income families with various tools and resources to help them reach their full potential. Raising awareness regarding the impact of poverty on young children is crucial for driving action to create a society in which all children have the opportunity to succeed.

Having run three half-marathons, I am familiar with the challenge of long-distance running and the mental battle that comes alongside it. However, I am fueled by my desire to help make a difference, knowing that will get me to the finish line. 


Each runner is not only racing through the streets of New York but also racing toward a future where every child has the resources they need to thrive. You can be a part of their journey by donating to a runner or sponsoring our team — your support will make a lasting impact!

As we count down to the marathon, let’s show these runners we’re with them every step of the way. Cheer them on, share their story, and let’s cross that $35,000 finish line together!