“I’ve been volunteering with FriendshipWorks alongside my dog, Nova, through their PetPals program for the past two years, and being able to raise awareness for their mission of ensuring no one ages alone truly feels like the best of both worlds!”
Why I'm Running the Boston Marathon for FriendshipWorks!
I made my way to endurance running shortly after my Division I swimming career ended. It was a great way to try something new while still bringing the same energy and dedication that comes with training toward a goal. I’ve run a handful of marathons, but I have yet to run the prestigious Boston Marathon. Standing at the finish line on Marathon Monday over the past few years has reignited my passion, and I’m looking forward to finally checking this race off my life bucket list.
My dog, Nova, and I volunteer with FriendshipWorks through their PetPals program. We visit an assisted living community in the South End, where we spend time with about 20 residents, depending on the day. One of the case workers shared that a resident who has difficulty participating in larger community events always asks about Nova and looks forward to our visits. It’s heartwarming to see that this organization offers something for everyone.
Even a five-minute interaction with my dog can make a lasting impact — sometimes it’s as simple as a familiar face and a smile, week after week.
Fun fact: Nova has been at the finish line of many of my races, from making her debut as a six-month-old puppy to cheering me on at the finish line of the New York City Marathon.
We're 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.
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 — Estee Dilli” 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 Estee Dilli 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.