As a quick reminder from yesterday’s email: now that I’m back from parental leave, from here on out, I’m with you every step, mile, and moment along the way. I’m continuing to catch up on messages, so please use our team inbox (marathonteam@bwh.harvard.edu), and you’re always welcome to save my number (857 505 1225) and text me your questions so I can help you in a timely manner.
Please read the following carefully—it’s a bit lengthy, but it includes important updates, timelines, RSVPs, and key information to set us all up for a strong and successful season.
Second Team Meeting (Virtual) – Thursday, January 29
Our second team meeting will be held virtually from 6:00–7:30 PM. You won’t want to miss important team updates, plus remarks from Stepping Strong Center leadership and grateful beneficiaries of Stepping Strong–funded, revolutionary treatments.
Link: RSVP for the team meeting HERE.
First Fundraising Deadline: $2,500 raised by January 30th at 11:59PM
Per the runner contract you signed, each charity runner agrees to meet or exceed personal fundraising minimums by the deadlines below and acknowledges that their credit card will be charged for any shortfall.
If you have incoming donations (checks or matching gifts), please let us know ASAP so we can track them and include them in your total, even if they are not yet reflected on your TeamRaiser page. If you plan to make an outright donation to fulfill your commitment, please do so prior to January 30, 2026.
Fundraising deadlines:
- January 30, 2026: Minimum of at least $2,500 raised
- March 31, 2026: Minimum of at least $7,500 raised
- May 11, 2026: Remaining fundraising commitment raised
Registering for the Boston Marathon
The Stepping Strong Team began registering for the 130th Boston Marathon on Wednesday, January 21. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns. Registration must be completed by 11:59 PM on Monday, February 2. No extensions can be granted.
Signup for a Small Team Gathering!
Spots are filling quickly to join the Reny family and connect with teammates in a smaller setting! Please RSVP for one date by clicking the below. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
In-person:
Virtual:
Fundraising Tip
This week, ask your potential donors to skip one small thing and turn it into a BIG impact. Instead of a:
- Morning coffee
- Energy drink
- Uber of Lyft when you could walk
- Lunch or dinner out
- Impulse Amazon buy
Ask them to donate what they would have spent to your fundraising efforts. $5–$10 may feel small, but when many supporters participate, it adds up fast.
Fundraising Milestones
All runners who raised $3,500+ by January 15 will soon receive an email to choose either a Stepping Strong Neck Gaiter or Ear Warmer as our first fundraising milestone reward!
March Madness Fundraising Challenge is underway!
- Monthly Prizes: The teammate who raises the most money and the teammate who receives the most donations in the months of January, February, and March will receive custom Stepping Strong swag!
- Grand Prizes: On April 1, the overall top fundraiser and the teammate with the most donations will each receive a custom Stepping Strong YETI!
Note: If you’re part of a fundraising team, totals will be divided among team members.
Team Training Runs and Weekly Newsletter
This Saturday’s run (1/24) will start at 12:00 PM due to extreme cold. Joint Venture Physical Therapy will open at 11:45 AM.
Be sure to check out John’s website and his latest email for updates and the training schedule. If you haven’t already, please subscribe to his weekly email HERE.
Don’t forget to submit your photos on the Runner Portal!
Please submit your photos HERE! We love seeing you…
- Stretching or pre-run prep
- Indoor and outdoor training
- Rocking Stepping Strong swag
- Selfies
Marathon Team Runner Portal
The runner portal is your one stop shop for everything you need to be successful throughout the season! Take some time to explore all the resources available to help you feel confident in everything you do.
Link: http://marathon.bwhevents.org/
Upcoming updates will include all fundraising milestones, a preview of the marathon team gear you will receive and more!
From start to finish,
Ali