Trailblazers: Why I Run for Camp

Affectionately named FUNraisers, every year, hundreds of people lace up to run with purpose. These amazing members of the Hole in the Wall community support Camp for a variety of reasons – aligning their passions and rallying their communities to raise funds for our growing programs. We asked a few of our athletes why they run in support of Camp. Here’s what they said:

Cousins Aaron Belletsky and Jenna Williams are running the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon in honor of their late cousin Carly DeMartino, former camper, summer staff and volunteer.

Hole in the Wall was something Carly championed very bravely throughout her battle with cancer. We would also often talk about how much she loved Camp and how happy she was when she was there. While honoring Carly’s memory is paramount for me in this experience, I am also happy that running the marathon will give me new memories of training and fundraising with my cousin Jenna. — Aaron

Agape love is “in sickness and health” love and “for better or worse” love. I have learned throughout my life that agapic love is the only kind of love that is lasting, unwavering, true love, and my cousin, Carly, was the embodiment of it. Running the TCS NYC Marathon is my way of continuing Carly’s agapic love story and giving back to the place that allowed her to be her happiest, most authentic self, while helping other children facing serious illnesses experience the same magic and compassion that meant so much to Carly. — Jenna

Future Sister/Brother-in-Laws Reagan Carey and Griffin O’Neill run to honor Reagan’s experience as a camper and to ensure more campers can find a home at Hole in the Wall.

I ran the United Airlines NYC Half because, as a former camper, Hole in the Wall allowed me to truly be myself and that changed my life forever. Now, I take an opportunity to volunteer, spread awareness and raise funds so more campers can experience that joy and life-changing feeling that Camp is. — Reagan

Running the Boston Marathon was a physical challenge, but it pales in comparison to the strength and resilience shown by the children and families served by Camp every single day, including my future sister-in-law, Reagan. During a difficult chapter of her life, Camp provided her with a sense of normalcy, strength and belonging. I ran to honor her courage, to support families navigating unimaginable challenges, and to help ensure that Hole in the Wall can continue changing lives for years to come. — Griffin

Husband and Wife Grant and Char Taylor run because they are moved by Camp’s mission.

I have run the TCS NYC Marathon three times with three different charities. Each was a good experience, but none hit me quite like running for Camp. At the pasta party I got to hear from one of the Camp participants in addition to hearing more about the experiences Camp provides for its campers and their families. It moved me and gave my run the next day an added layer of purpose. I’m proud to do my little part for this awesome organization. — Grant I learned about Hole in the Wall from my husband. I was so impressed and inspired with the enthusiasm and motivation to provide such amazing opportunities and experiences for these kids and their families. I have been involved with many different running groups and was so amazed with Hole in the Wall that I had to be a part of it for the United Airlines NYC Half. I look forward to my next race with this group. — Char

There are plenty of opportunities to write your running story with Hole in the Wall — whether marathons, half marathons or 5ks. Learn more about becoming a Camp FUNraiser here.