Liz Runs the Boston Marathon
Liz Puleo Runs the Boston Marathon for the West Suburban YMCA
This April, Liz Puleo is taking on a lifelong dream: running the 129th Boston Marathon. But this journey is more than just crossing the finish line—it’s about honoring a dear friend and raising funds for an organization that has profoundly impacted her family and the community: the West Suburban YMCA.
“Running the Boston Marathon has been a bucket list item for me as long as I can remember,” Liz shares. “Being able to represent an organization that is such an integral part of our community makes it even more memorable.”
Liz is not just running for herself—she has committed to raising $7,500 for the Y’s Annual Fund, which supports financial aid programming and ensures that all community members have access to the Y’s transformative programs, regardless of financial circumstances.
Liz’s connection to the YMCA runs deep. As a mother of four, her family has experienced the Y’s impact firsthand. “We have utilized just about every program that the YMCA has to offer,” she explains. “This includes dropping the kids off at Kids Corner at just three months old (so I could have a much-needed 90-minute break), to my oldest getting his first job at the Y.”
Her memories of the Y are filled with joy and milestones: “Celebrating their birthdays, watching them learn to swim, attending various sports classes, hearing about their adventures at summer camp, and enjoying community events such as Fall Fest and Healthy Kids Day.” These experiences have made the Y a cornerstone of her family’s life.
Liz is also running to honor the late Fred Greene, a longtime YMCA board member and cherished community leader. “Fred was an amazing father, husband, neighbor, and a tremendous friend to many in this community,” Liz reflects. “Fred loved the Y and lived its mission through his embodiment of the Y’s core values: caring, honesty, responsibility, and respect.”
Taking on the Boston Marathon is no small feat, but Liz is fueled by gratitude and purpose. “Running the Boston Marathon will be the most physically challenging endeavor that I have undertaken yet,” she admits. “I am so grateful that I am in a place where I GET TO DO THIS, to not only honor my late friend Fred, but also to raise funds for the West Suburban YMCA.”
How You Can Support Liz
Liz is working hard to meet her $7,500 fundraising goal, and she needs your help! Your donation will directly support the Y’s financial aid programming, making it possible for families in our community to access vital programs like swim lessons, summer camp, childcare, and more.
“I could not think of a more important place to be able to raise funds for,” Liz says.
Join Liz in making a difference by donating today. Every contribution brings her closer to her goal, helps families access the programs and resources they need, and helps cheer Liz on as she takes on this incredible challenge. Be sure to cheer Liz on in the notes section on the donation page!
Donate Now
Let’s help Liz cross the finish line and uplift our community together!