Rae Runs for Harlem Run & Harlem Grown!

I am new to Harlem and I am new to actually enjoying running (after years of being a bit of a hater...). Finding the community at Harlem Run helped me feel connected and grounded in this neighborhood after a major life change. Harlem Run has inspired me to believe I could run further and faster than ever before so on a whim, I entered a drawing and won entry to the RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon on May 21st. I never thought I'd be able to or be interested in running a half marathon, or any significant distance for that matter, but sometimes we surprise ourselves :) In a relatively short time, Harlem has given me so much and I want to use this as an opportunity to give back in some way.

 

Harlem Grown is an incredible organization based here in Harlem with a mission to inspire youth to live healthy and ambitious lives through mentorship and hands-on education in urban farming, sustainability, and nutrition. If you know me at all, you know I'm a firm believer in the power of plants to transform and heal us. I was privileged enough to have access to green spaces as a young person, which fundamentally shaped who I am today, and I love that Harlem Grown is working hard to provide that to the young people of Harlem.

 

If you are someone who loves running, loves Harlem, loves plants and farming, loves fresh veggies, or loves me, I hope you'll consider sharing some coin to support this amazing cause!

 

Also be sure to check out the children's book written about their origin story here: Harlem Grown Book

 

** 100% of the donations raised will be given directly to Harlem Grown. The leadership at Harlem Grown has requested I donate in the form of a check which is why this fundraiser is set up the way it is. I will be providing a photo of the final disbursement being sent to Harlem Grown for transparency.**