Support Back on My Feet: NYC Marathon 2024

I will be running the 2024 NYC Marathon to raise money for an incredible organization called Back on My Feet (BOMF). BOMF combats homelessness through the power of running, community support, and essential employment and housing resources.

With its unique approach rooted in the belief that if you first restore confidence, strength, and self-esteem, the individuals are better equipped to tackle the road ahead and move toward stable jobs, homes, and long-term self-sufficiency.

As a volunteer, I've experienced first-hand how seemingly small things, like self-discipline and showing up to the 5 am morning runs three times a week (which is what is required of members), amount to a tremendous difference in your relationship with yourself, your outlook, and bravery to try things even though you don't think you can do them. Giving yourself the room to fail, but doing your best anyway. Feeling stronger physically and mentally. And surprising yourself in the end.

This self-empowerment model worked on me, as a volunteer, the way it was designed to work on a member. That’s one of the things I love most about BOMF, you’d never know who is a member and who is a volunteer. It simply doesn’t matter. We’re there for each other as friends and fellow humans.

I’ve been with the organization since 2017, and the New York City Marathon will be my fifth one fundraising for Back on My Feet (Boston 2018, Chicago 2019, London 2022, Berlin 2023).

Even though it’s not my first marathon, each Marathon training has its own challenges, but if BOMF has taught me anything, it’s that with the right support and dedication, your goals are within reach. Plus, my first-world hurdles pale in comparison to what our members face. They are my inspiration and a reminder to keep at it.

Finding BOMF has had a profound effect on my life. Over the time with the organization I’ve seen so many lives transformed. The members are the ones who start their transformation. They are the ones showing up and doing the work. It’s why the BOMF program is so effective. It starts with restoring belief in yourself to follow through, and then it takes a village. BOMF is that village.

The resources made available from your donations make a world of difference to our members.

No donation is too small. Any and all contributions are very much appreciated. And if you are not in the position to donate, check to see if there is a team near you if you’d like to experience the magic of BOMF.

It being the 5th fundraiser for this wonderful organization, it's not lost on me that I keep asking for your support and you keep coming through. And I appreciate that tremendously.

Fundraising and getting to experience some of the most iconic races in the world while supporting an organization I truly believe in is a huge privilege.

Thank you for being a part of my journey!

Margarita