Running for a Cause: Meghan Grossman's Marathon

Meghan Grossman, former teacher turned stay-at-home mom, always considered herself an athlete, but never considered herself a runner. In adulthood, running became a staple in her routine, providing her with the chance to center herself and find calm in a regularly chaotic world. Meghan’s love of running led her to her first marathon at the age of 24 when she was living in San Francisco. From then on, marathon running became a way for Meghan to mark time, to set ambitious goals, and to make a difference in the lives of her two children and community.

Amidst the pandemic, Meghan considered how she wanted her young children to remember this time in their history. She wanted them to know that they could do hard things, and knew modeling perseverance through marathon training would send that message clearly. She reflected on the importance of supporting them emotionally and providing them with the tools to express themselves, process new and challenging situations, and to build coping skills to keep calm and carry on. 

Enter The Nora Project. 

A long-time friend of Co-Founders Lauren and Adam, Meghan knew that The Nora Project was providing curriculum to schools across the country to support students’ social and emotional learning. “I have been following The Nora Project since its early days and have been continually impressed and inspired by its growth and its impact on everyone involved.  As a former teacher as well as a parent, a program that sparks a change in both adults and children is incredible,” Meghan shared. Inspired by this work, Meghan has decided to run for the cause this year, and she is now fundraising for The Nora Project. According to Meghan, “The Nora Project is an inspiring organization that teaches empathy, kindness and friendship building skills.  I couldn't think of a better purpose for running than to try to raise money for an organization that encourages friendships and recognizes differences in everyone and celebrates that.” You can learn more about Meghan’s story and make a donation on her fundraising page: https://www.classy.org/fundraiser/2825045

This year, on September 25th, Meghan will take part in the Hamptons Marathon, which was originally scheduled to take place in Southampton, New York. With the state of the world, the marathon will take place virtually now, and Meghan will be running the marathon near her home in Northern New Jersey. If you live in the area, reach out to Meghan on her page and find out more about her route so you can cheer her on! Meghan will be accepting donations to her fundraiser through September 30th, 2020 and has set a goal of raising $5000.

The Nora Project staff is so inspired by Meghan’s marathon effort and humbled by her willingness to take on such a challenge on our behalf. Thank you, Meghan, for all of the hard work that goes into preparing yourself physically and emotionally for running 26.2, and for believing in our mission of teaching empathy and sparking friendships. We’ll be cheering you on from afar on September 25th!