After nearly 15 years away from high school track, I've rediscovered my love for running this past year, and it's brought unexpected joy back into my life!

To challenge myself, I've signed up for the Brooklyn Half Marathon on May 17th. Yes, you read that right—I've never run this far before! I'm nervous, excited and achy! They weren't kidding when they said things start to hurt in your 30s.

I'm not just running for myself, though. I've joined NYRR Team for Climate because our natural environment matters deeply to me. My reacquaintance with running has got me outside every day, reminding me how precious our forests, trails, and open spaces truly are. I know many of you share my appreciation for preserving these beautiful places for future generations.

Your donation will support New York Road Runners' ambitious goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2040. Here are some of the impressive projects they support:

- The Hartwood Forestry Project, spanning over 6,000 acres of forestland in southern New York State, protects forests that would otherwise be cut down. This project not only reduces greenhouse gases through carbon removal and avoidance, but also improves wildlife habitats, protects stream water quality, and enhances opportunities for forest recreation and education.

- The Eagle Mountain Forestry Project preserves more than 6,000 acres across New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. These wilderness sanctuaries are managed for natural growth with no commercial harvesting or development, allowing forests to thrive while offering spaces for low-impact activities like hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. 

Every step I take in this half marathon will be powered by your support. Please consider donating to help me cross the finish line while supporting NYRR's journey toward a more sustainable future.

For more information on this initiative, please visit nyrr.org/teamforclimate.

Thank you for helping me make this run count for something bigger than myself!

—Lily