Pictured from left: Annie Phan, Michael Levin with Father John Predmore, and Mike Manifold

At this year’s Boston Marathon, three dedicated runners ran as members of Team BHCHP, crossing the historic finish line and raising over $46,500 for BHCHP. We want to congratulate Fr. John Predmore, Mike Manifold, and Annie Phan on completing this amazing feat and thank them earnestly for their loyal support of our mission and work. At the same time, we remain grateful to the John Hancock Nonprofit Partners Program for awarding us with non-qualified entries. Over the 13 years that we have been fielding teams for the Boston Marathon, runners have raised over $340,000 to help BHCHP. If you are interested in running for us next year, be sure to get in touch with us at marathon@bhchp.org.

Please read below some comments shared by the runners on why they chose to run for BHCHP.

What made you decide to join Team BHCHP?

Mike: I jumped at the opportunity to raise money for BHCHP’s work and run the Boston Marathon! I strongly believe in BHCHP’s mission to ensure unconditionally equitable and dignified access to the highest quality care for all individuals and families experiencing homelessness in our community.

Annie: I really enjoy working at BHCHP and I know every dollar I raise will go into a good cause.

Fr. Predmore: There are so many good organizations to support, and this one gets at the heart of who we are as a society. We care for the most vulnerable among us and see them as friends, connect, and form healthy relationships. And I think there is always a realization that someone in our families could find themselves a person who could homelessness. By donating, people are helping their own families and strengthening their sense of understanding and compassion.

Why is it important to you to support people experiencing homelessness?

Mike: There is no better place to start helping people than with homelessness. I believe we should start helping people who need it most. I can’t think of a group more in need than someone experiencing homelessness and struggling with health concerns at the same time.

Annie: Homelessness can happen to anyone and most people can significantly improve if medical treatment and resources are made available to them. Although BHCHP has helped so many patients get back n their feet, we cannot do it alone and our success is dependent on the willingness of the community to help.

Meet Keirsa Johnson, originally from Milaca, MN, now residing in Cambridge MA. She started running in college as a way to stay fit. This will be her fifth marathon, and her second marathon with BHCHP.

Of our work she says, “People come to experience homelessness for any number of reasons, and often their challenges are not given the attention they deserve.  Everyone deserves to feel safe and cared for, especially in their time of need. I’m always surprised by the scope of work BHCHP does – the patients treated, clinic sites, type of services provided.  It’s incredible.”

Her family and friends will be cheering her on at the finish line.