Why I Run: HFNY Charity Run Edition

why i run blog

We are so excited for our HFNY Runners to participate in our Charity Run on March 17! Our team of more than 80 runners from across the city will run in the NYCRUNS Spring Fling 5K or 10K on Roosevelt Island—and together, they have a goal of raising $50,000 to support programs of our 50 non-profit affiliates.

Below, hear from a few of our runners (including our youngest runner, eight-year-old Rider!) about why they are running and fundraising for Hope for New York. You also can help them reach their $50,000 fundraising goal by donating ahfny.org/runners by April 1.

 

The Moy Sisters

"So often, we are aware there is so much need in this great city, but we can be overwhelmed at where to start and how to help. HFNY is a wonderful organization that has given us opportunities to support and serve New Yorkers in need. We are excited to be able to share it with others and raise money for it while running, which is something we already like to do together." 

—Alison and Sarah Moy

 

HuiZhen

"I've had the privilege of meeting the amazing people of NYC over my past two years here. Running is my little way of giving back to this community that has blessed me so much!" 

—HuiZhen Gan

 

 

Rider

"I remember walking through Times Square and seeing a homeless neighbor with their child. It made me feel really sad because I thought that it would be really hard to take care of your child in the street with no food and no bed. It also made me feel glad because my family has a home and food to eat when we are hungry... I think that God gave me the opportunity to help by running HFNY’s 5k. He made me a really good runner, and I really like to do it. If you support me running, your money will help meet my neighbors’ needs. I know it could feed some, give some English classes, help some to be more safe, and help others find jobs. I hope you will help me. Please pray with me for all the needs of all the people in my neighborhood." 

—Rider (age 8)

 

Christopher

"I remember reading a New York Times article in 2013 entitled “Invisible Child,” which told the story of a young girl, Dasani, living in a homeless shelter in Brooklyn. The report was heart breaking to read as it chronicled her life of being poor in a rich city. The story has stayed with me ever since. I am running for all the children out there that don't have a soft bed to lie down in or a warm meal to wake up to. I am running because no child should be without a home." 

—Christopher Kromer