The Run for Peace Virtual Marathon established by Running Coach and Writer, Jenny Hadfield – specifically to support children affected by the Boston Marathon attacks – has raised US$33,500 for the One Step Ahead Foundation, a beneficiary that will provide patients with prosthetics and support.
Jenny Hadfield, a renowned running and fitness expert, ‘adventure-preneur’, author, editor and coach, launched the 2013 Run for Peace Marathon to support those affected by the Boston Marathon attacks. Throughout the one-month campaign that asked registrants to run or walk a total of 26.2 miles within the time frame, over 1,000 participants including 55 children, toed the line for Peace and surpassed the fundraising goal of US$25,000 by raising US$33,500 for the One Step Ahead Foundation.
Hadfield wanted to focus specifically on the children affected, especially those who endured severe lower limb injuries and lost limbs. Together with her advisory board, Hadfield selected the One Step Ahead Foundation, founded by ultra athlete and amputee Amy Palmiero-Winters, as the beneficiary for The Peace Virtual Marathon.
“I was touched to see the miles, love and support that were donated to the Peace Marathon,” said Hadfield. We had fifteen countries represented and to not only achieve the goal, but surpass it, was wonderful.”
The One Step Ahead Foundation was started on the principle that participation in athletics provides opportunities for children to grow and learn through hard work, teamwork and dealing with losses. As a result, Palmiero-Winters, ultra athlete, amputee and Founder of the Foundation, seeks to provide counselling and mentoring to help children with disabilities find healthy and rewarding experiences in sport.
“We are working with the crime victim’s fund to see where we can use the funds immediately,” said Palmiero-Winters. “It’s imperative to keep these kids active so that their self-esteem and self-confidence remain strong through camaraderie and accomplishing goals. The support of the Peace Marathon will help us achieve this.”
“The Peace Marathon took on a life of its own within hours of its inception and will continue to serve as a means for runners to support those who need help in the future,” added Hadfield.
www.ThePeaceMarathon.com
www.onestepaheadfoundation.org
