I’m running my first half marathon in Rehoboth Beach, DE on April 13th 2025 with the intention to raise money and support 2 things I’ve been holding close to my heart: 

SL24: UnLocke the Light/Sean's House- a local resource in my hometown of Newark, DE that’s been dedicated to providing multiple resources for mental healthcare for teens & young adults in the community. This organization not only offers resources to young people struggling with ways to grow into their mental health, but also offers a physical space of support. “Sean’s House,” is a house turned into a community home that is a safe haven to hang out, get hands on resources, and even share meals with others who need some company. To have known Sean in high school makes supporting this foundation even more special.

The Trevor Project- an organization that gives access to suicide prevention, mental health resources, and crisis intervention to LGBTQIA+ youth. They run nationwide efforts to support people in the queer community who need others to lean on in times of uncertainty and fear. Now, more than ever, I find the strong calling to support and elevate organizations to protect our LGBTQIA+ community, given the recent use of political warfare to dictate the basic human rights of anyone who identifies as anything but straight. 

Personally, I’ve put in a lot of work over the last 2 years and used the resources easily accessible to create a healthier physical lifestyle and mental headspace. Lately, my anxiety’s ebbs and flows have been heavier than what I’ve been used to, and it’s been hard to handle at times. I can’t stress how thankful I am to have a village around me to support and love me even when I feel at my lowest and that I had resources available to utilize. Supporting groups like SL24 UnLocke the Light/Sean’s House and The Trevor Project gives me the hope that more and more people can find that sliver of light in a moment of darkness, when they don’t know where else to turn.

I’m in no way a big runner, but I’ve always been motivated by inspiration and hope- and I am sure that your support can help get me to accomplish some (insane) goals. So let’s push me to that finish line in Rehoboth and give back to a community of love & support. Thanks yall!