This fundraiser is in efforts to bridge the gap between healing and nature for visibly minority ethnic (VME) communities. I am aiming to qualify for the Boston marathon in efforts to support Black2Nature.

Maslow’s Hierachy of Needs explains the importance of basic necessities (Water, clean air, shelter, etc.). Without a safe and fulfilling environment, our capacity to love can be thrown off board. How can we be present when we’re breathing in pollution, and it’s a concrete jungle?

Many VME (black and brown people) are living in urban areas. I, myself, lived in the most polluted zipcode of 80216 in the U.S., pursuing my environmental career in Denver, CO. There, I got to see firsthand the marginalized and redlining between factories and VME folk.

Now happily living and working in a leadership role in environmental education in a national park, I want to give back and make a meaningful impact with my running career, nature, and self discovery journey out west. Returning physically and spiritually back home to myself has brought remembrance in who I am and how I can help others.

In urban environments, it is also easy to fall into a fear or stuck mindset. With your help, we can aim to fundraise money for VME communities to have equal access to nature. There is hope, and by donating to this fundraiser, you can change the life of a child who wants to experience the joy that nature brings for all!