The West Suburban YMCA Runs Boston
Meet our 2024 Boston Marathon Runner!
We’re thrilled to announce that Melissa Starr will be running the 128th Boston Marathon on behalf of the West Suburban YMCA.
Melissa believes running 26.2 miles is nothing compared to the tireless efforts the staff, coaches and volunteers put in on a daily basis at the Y.
Melissa has had the opportunity to coach YBA for several seasons. She appreciates how the Y welcomes community members of all ages and abilities, and that it is a place where everyone can feel success and belonging.
Melissa has committed to raising $7,500 for our Annual Fund to ensure that the West Suburban YMCA will continue to develop amazing programs, like YBA, that provide an opportunity for all kids to find joy and connection.
To support Melissa's fundraising efforts, please visit her page: GivenGain
If you are interested in running the marathon for the Y in the future, please let us know!
Melissa Starr
2024 Boston Marathon Runner
"I am honored to represent the West Suburban YMCA in the 2024 Boston Marathon. The West Suburban YMCA continually shows up for the community by providing essential access to all community members who desire enriching experiences through health and wellness.
Running 26.2 miles is nothing compared to the tireless efforts of the staff, coaches and volunteers put in on a daily basis. The Y welcomes community members of all ages and abilities. The Y is a place where everyone can feel success and belonging.
The Y has become such a big part of my family’s life in a relatively short time. At the age of 3 my daughter and I participated in our first Y sports program, Parent & Me soccer. Our experience with this program was wonderful, the enthusiasm of the coaches was contagious, especially when they played “Fishy, Fishy Cross my Ocean,” a crowd favorite. These coaches welcomed kids of all abilities, adapting when necessary, all while instilling the values of teamwork and sportsmanship. Since then, my daughter has participated in the Y’s swimming and skills programs, where the values of teamwork and sportsmanship are evident, but more than that, the Y coaches ensure each participant feels included and successful. One Y program that is near and dear to me is the Youth Basketball League (YBA). I have had the wonderful opportunity to coach for the past couple of seasons and it’s nothing short of amazing. YBA is structured so that kids can learn the fundamentals of basketball and try out their new skills in a supportive teaching game.
Over the next few months, as I train for the Boston Marathon, I hope you will support me by raising funds for the West Suburban YMCA so they can continue providing access for all to their wonderful programs like Parent & Me soccer, swimming and YBA. All donations will go to the YMCA's financial aid program, which ensures that all community members have access to the Y’s amazing programs regardless of their economic circumstances! Thank you for your support!!"
To learn more about Melissa's journey to the finish line, or to support his fundraising efforts, click here.
