From all of us at Bigs, we send our heartfelt wishes for your health, safety and comfort during this uncertain time. Our team is working at full throttle, serving 350+ children, volunteers and families that are the focus of our organization.
As you know, Bigs relies on local donations to fund our programs, and spring is our peak fundraising season. As with every organization, several fundraising events had to be cancelled and we are so thankful to the incredible individuals, businesses and supporters who generously designated their donations despite these cancellations. These supporters are one of the main reasons Bigs has been able to adapt and continue to support the same number of children today as we were a few months ago. We may be living in a difficult time right now, but for many children in our community “right now” has always been their reality and we will continue to fight to prevent the social isolation of our most vulnerable.
Tony Anderson is standing on our frontlines with us fighting to change the endings for local children who need us, need a mentor and deserve a better ending. So while three of our signature events were cancelled, there is one incredible journey that hasn’t ended yet and WILL happen ……even if he has to do it alone.
ONE MAN. 20,000 MILES. 1,000s OF CHILDREN.
Imagine running a marathon in every state in our country and Washington, DC. That is what Tony Anderson has been working toward for the past 17 years, all to raise funds for Bigs, breaking the cycle of poverty for local children by running a marathon in every state plus Washington, DC. Tony’s finished 50 marathons to date, and although his final run at The Flying Pig Marathon in Cincinnati, Ohio has been derailed, it’s not stopping him from completing his mission.
Despite current circumstances, Tony, along with a number of local supporters (at a safe distance, of course) will run his last 26.2 miles on Sunday, May 3 in Traverse City (a virtual run sanctioned by The Flying Pig).
Although many of the plans and celebrations surrounding the final phase of Tony’s journey have and continue to be tweaked, one thing remains the same – his dedication and commitment to raise funding for Bigs.
We are $250k away from our $1 Million goal and, the Good News is, you have an opportunity to help!
Be a part of inspiring every child’s potential and help us reach our goal.
“It’s about breaking the cycle of poverty in one child, because when you change one child, you can change the generations that follow.” – Tony Anderson
PS: Today, there are 89 active High School mentors who believe in the value of connection and continue to find ways to show their Littles just how truly special they are.
Please be safe and stay healthy.
Cecilia J. Chesney
Executive Director