Hi, I'm Victor Bernard,

This year, I’m doing something I never imagined I would: running the New York City Marathon.

I’m not a runner—never have been. But I’m lacing up my shoes and training every day because of two reasons that are deeply personal.

The first is my father. This will be his last marathon, and it’s been his dream for years that we run it together. Sharing this challenge with him—mile after mile, borough after borough—is my way of honoring everything he’s passed on to me: perseverance, generosity, and a love for this city.

The second is the Bowery Mission. I’ve been volunteering with them since I was 12 years old. I’ve served meals, shared conversations, and witnessed firsthand the dignity, resilience, and humanity of people who are often unseen. The Mission doesn’t just provide food and shelter—it restores hope. And now, I want to give back in a bigger way.

That’s why I’m raising $4,000 to support the Bowery Mission’s work. Every dollar goes toward providing meals, shelter, and life-transforming programs to New Yorkers in crisis.

This marathon is about more than running. It’s about love—for my father, for this city, and for the people who need our support most.

If you can, please consider donating to this cause. Whether it’s $5 or $50, your generosity will go further than any mile I run.

Thank you for reading, and thank you for believing in something bigger than all of us.

With gratitude,

Victor Bernard