Marathon 2026

Sarah Valvanis

"I think it's so easy to get caught up in the chaos of life in your daily to-do list, but listening to my grandfather reflect on nine decades, his takeaway has always been: just love. The love he continues to give and receive. If we don't have each other and shared humanity, what do we have?"

Why I'm Running the Boston Marathon for FriendshipWorks!

On April 20th 2026, I'll be running the 130th Boston Marathon to be part of something bigger than myself. Having stood in the crowds on many Marathon Mondays, it’s impossible to be an onlooker without feeling inspired by what you’re witnessing. From the very first race I watched, I’ve described it as watching superheroes grow their wings. I am truly in awe of the physical and mental capacity it takes to complete this journey.

A big part of why this race matters to me is the human connection it represents. 

That’s why running in support of FriendshipWorks feels so meaningful. Their mission is simple and profound: to bring connection to people who may not have it readily available. At its core, it’s about spreading love — and who can’t get behind that?

I’m excited not only to support their work through fundraising, but also to volunteer, meet incredible people in the community, and hear their stories. As a former journalist, I’ve always loved listening to others’ experiences — family life, places they’ve been, jobs they’ve worked, how the world has changed. In the end, human connection is what we’re all seeking, whether through volunteering or running a marathon.

I'm raising money for FriendshipWorks!

Here’s how you can help:

  • Donate: Every contribution, big or small, makes a real difference.

  • Spread the word: Share my page with friends, family, and your network to help me reach my goal.

  • Learn more: Discover how FriendshipWorks works to ensure no one in Boston ages alone.

Thank you for supporting me and FriendshipWorks. I am so grateful for your generosity—I truly couldn’t do this without you.

Our Supporters

  • Matt You are AMAZING!  2 weeks ago $106.00
  • Michael You only get to run your fist marathon once…enjoy every step!!! 2 weeks ago $53.00
  • Blair You were made for this. Go crush it; enjoy every mile! <3 2 weeks ago $100.00
  • Salesforce 2 weeks ago $50.00
  • Casey You’re going to crush Marathon Monday!! Love, the Igoe Family  2 weeks ago $53.00
  • Jesse LFG! - Regina and I are so proud to support you.  February 2026 $530.00
  • ANDREW Last month $347.36
  • Nancy Go Sarah! You’re amazing! 3 weeks ago $318.00
  • Dance 3 weeks ago $300.00
  • Doris and George February 2026 $265.00

$11,923.46

achieved

$10,000.00

goal

of your goal reached

Donation FAQ

If you’d like to avoid online processing fees, you’re welcome to donate by check. Please make checks payable to FriendshipWorks Inc, and note “Boston Marathon—Sarah Valvanis” in the memo.

Checks can be mailed to:

FriendshipWorks Inc
105 Chauncy St, 8th floor
Boston, MA 02111

You can also avoid fees by visiting fw4elders.org/donate, and select BANKACCOUNT option at the Select a Payment Method section as you check out. 
Be sure to select the In Honor of field at the "Dedication" prompt, & write in Runner Sara Valvanis as the Honoree. 

About FriendshipWorks

FriendshipWorks’ mission is to reduce social isolation, enhance the quality of life, and preserve the dignity of older adults in Greater Boston. FriendshipWorks has more than four decades of experience recruiting, training, and placing volunteers to provide support and assistance to elders. Their programming includes Friendly Visting, MusicWorks, PetPals, and Medical Escorts. They believe people, pets, and music are inherent to the human soul and provide support for isolated older adults throughout all of Boston, Brookline, Newton, Somerville, and Cambridge.

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