In our final installment of our City & Town features this marathon cycle, we learn about Bethany Hill Place in Framingham and Boston’s Animal Shelter and Fund for Animal Care – highlighting the reach and impact that the marathon has across a range of organizations along the route.
With just a few short weeks until race day runners and leaders from these organizations share the importance of the marathon for them and the work they do year-round.
Framingham
Bethany Hill Place pairs high quality affordable housing with onsite programming and supportive services in the City of Framingham.
“We’re more than just a roof over someone’s head – Bethany Hill Place is where our residents can rebuild, grow, and take steps toward their desired futures. Our residents, who are families, single parents, and individuals, working to overcome challenges such as homelessness, addiction, and domestic violence, are all working toward stability,” shares James Tresner, Executive Director of Bethany Hill Place.
He continues, “What’s special about Bethany Hill Place is that we’re not just offering a home – we’re offering a path forward, a chance to grow, and a place where people believe in you.”
Six runners as part of Team Framingham selected Bethany Hill Place this year to support as part of the City of Framingham’s Boston Marathon program, and it means so much to James and his team.
“The Boston Marathon is legendary, and having a team running for Bethany Hill Place means the world to us. Every dollar raised helps keep our programs going: programs that give families the tools to break free from the cycle of poverty. It’s incredible that each of our runners–Angela, Daniel, Jennifer, Iracely, Marissa, and Mindy–have taken on this challenge, knowing they’re not just doing it for themselves, but for the parents, kids, and individuals in our community who are fighting their own uphill battles. Their commitment is inspiring, and their impact is life changing.
“There’s something special about Marathon Monday in Framingham—it brings everyone together. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting, you can feel the energy in the air. People come out in droves, ringing bells, waving signs, and shouting passionate encouragement to strangers. That spirit of support is exactly what makes Framingham such a strong community, and it’s also at the heart of what we do at Bethany Hill Place. The marathon is a unique reflection of perseverance and community, two things that our residents embody.
“The Boston Marathon is an incredible way to bring people together for a cause that matters. So, whether you’re running, donating, or cheering from the sidelines, you’re a part of something bigger - and that’s what makes this so special!”
Angela Murgia is one of Team Framingham’s runners and she shares what this experience means to her.
“I have not run the Boston Marathon – or any marathon - before but I ran the B.A.A. Distance Medley in 2023 and I couldn’t be more excited about this opportunity.
“Training is going really well! I had hoped to run my first marathon this past fall, but I suffered an injury near the end of my training. Now, I'm convinced that happened for a reason to help me prepare for Boston. I attended physical therapy for a couple of months and have continued incorporating the strength exercises I learned, which has made a big difference!
“To be running the Boston Marathon is a dream come true. Marathon Monday is my favorite day of the year. I've been a spectator more times than I can count and I still get emotional seeing people accomplishing their goals and the support they get from the community renews my faith in humanity. For years, I have said, "Someday it's going to be me out there." and I'm so excited it's finally happening.”
You can support Angela’s marathon effort HERE.
BOSTON
The City of Boston’s Animal Shelter has long been a vital resource for pet owners and animals in need for decades and this year they are being supported by the City through a Boston Marathon entry to support their Fund for Animal Care.
The shelter provides services including low-cost spay and neuter programs, lost pet reporting, and assistance for found animals. With a full-time veterinarian on staff, the shelter continues to provide essential wellness services to Boston’s pet community.
Steve Bickerton, Deputy Commissioner of Parks and Recreation explains, “The shelter plays a crucial role in providing safe, temporary housing for lost, stray, and surrendered pets while helping them find loving homes. The Fund for Animal Care ensures that financial barriers do not prevent pets from receiving the care they need.
“We’re so grateful to this year's runners who have chosen the City’s shelter. Participation in the Boston Marathon presents an exciting opportunity to raise awareness and generate much-needed funding for the shelter’s programs. The funds raised will directly support veterinary care, food, and shelter services, ensuring that more pets can receive the care they deserve while they wait for adoption.”
One runner lacing up to support the shelter is Roubina Surenian from Medford, MA who works for Meet Boston as Vice President Partner Development & Engagement.
“Back in 2019, I rescued a miniature poodle in Los Angeles and he has been by my side ever since. The selfless work that animal shelters and rescues do to help their communities and these animals is unmatched and formidable. They bring these animals to a safe haven and do everything they can to help them to a better life. I also love that the City provides incredible resources for exotic animals and for those pet parent's that may not be able to afford the basic care and services to help their pets. Offering these services without fear and judgement is profound and more people in the City of Boston should be aware of these incredible services that will support the pet parents with their pets.
“This will be my first time running the Boston Marathon. I completed the B.A.A. Distance Medley in 2023 and 2024 so I am stepping it up a gear this year. I have watched it in person or from LA over the years so this is going to be such an incredible experience for me. When you grow up in the Boston area, I think everyone dreams of running and finishing this Marathon.”
To learn more about available pets visit boston.gov/animals, or follow @bostonanimal.
To support Roubina’s fundraising efforts HERE.