Earlier this year, I visited several schools in rural Laos supported by Pencils of Promise.

Seeing the classrooms, meeting the teachers, and spending time with the children completely changed my perspective. In some villages, even having a classroom is considered a luxury. Yet I also saw how something as simple as a safe school can transform an entire community.

That's why, on 1 November, I'll be running the New York Marathon to raise $4,500 for Pencils of Promise.

This isn't about me crossing a finish line.

It's about helping children reach their starting line.

Every dollar raised helps Pencils of Promise create better learning environments through classrooms, learning materials, teacher training, and access to clean water.

If you're able to support this fundraiser, I'd be incredibly grateful. And if donating isn't possible, sharing this page would mean just as much.

Thank you for helping give more children the opportunity they deserve.