Helping Runners Make a Difference: NYC Marathon Unites Athletes and Charity

Nov. 7, 2023, NEW YORK, NY – The New York City Marathon, one of the most iconic and prestigious races in the world, is not only a display of athletic prowess but also a platform for making a positive impact on society. In line with this spirit, six runners ran to raise funds to fight modern slavery for International Justice Mission (IJM). By participating in the NYC Marathon, these runners are not only pushing their own physical limits but also striving to create a world free from slavery. IJM was among more than 550 official charity partners for the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon, Sunday, Nov. 5.

“It’s so exciting and impactful to have this group of athletes dedicate their resources and energy to support International Justice Mission at the 2023 New York City Marathon,” said IJM Director for New York City Mobilization Jenn Petersen. “Thank you to our team and to all who donated in support of IJM.”

“The TCS New York City Marathon is one of the most exciting days of the year and thanks to our incredible charity partners it is also one of the most impactful and purposeful sporting events in the world,” said Christine Burke, Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, NYRR. “New York Road Runners is proud to support the International Justice Mission team and the incredible impact they have made to their communities as they raise important funds to benefit the fight against modern slavery."

Six runners participated in this year’s marathon for the IJM team. The team included: Sandi Taylor, Ryan McDonnell, Yasmin Lountchenko, Nate Swanson, Maddie Dugan and Emily Dunn. Together the team raised more than $30,000 for IJM.

The New York Road Runners (NYRR) Official Charity Partner Program offers an opportunity for nonprofit organizations to raise funds to support their missions and services. Participating charities can offer guaranteed entry to runners who fundraise on their behalf. Since its inception in 2006, the TCS New York City Marathon Official Charity Partner Program has raised more than $440 million for more than 1,000 worthy nonprofit organizations across the globe. Prior to the start of the official program, the New York City Marathon had served as an outlet for individual philanthropic runners since the 1980s.

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About International Justice Mission:

International Justice Mission partners with local authorities in 31 program offices in 16 countries to combat slavery, violence against women and children and police abuse of power. IJM’s mission is to protect people in poverty from violence by rescuing victims, bringing criminals to justice, restoring survivors to safety and strength, and helping local law enforcement build a safe future that lasts. Learn more at: IJM.org.

About New York Road Runners:

NYRR’s mission is to help and inspire people through running. Since 1958, New York Road Runners has grown from a local running club to the world’s premier community running organization. NYRR’s commitment to New York City’s five boroughs features races, virtual races, community events, free youth running initiatives and school programs, the NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub and training resources that provide hundreds of thousands of people each year with the motivation, know-how, and opportunity to Run for Life. NYRR’s premier event, and the largest marathon in the world, is the TCS New York City Marathon. Held annually on the first Sunday in November, the race features a wide population of runners, from the world’s top professional athletes to a vast range of competitive, recreational, and charity runners. To learn more, visit www.nyrr.org.