Waltham Runner Takes on Boston Marathon to Raise Funds for Youth

Waltham resident Aaron Gladden is running the 130th Boston Marathon on April 20 to raise money and awareness for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts, the state’s leading one-to-one mentoring program for youth.

BBBSEM partners with families to match children (Littles) with screened adult mentors (Bigs) who listen and support them. They help with homework and study habits, setting goals, making safe decisions and building self-confidence. Since 1949, the nonprofit has supported more than 25,000 young people.

Gladden has been matched with his Little Brother, Teyvon, for more than 10 years and watched him grow from a nine-year-old elementary school child into a young man and high school graduate.

Running the Boston Marathon has long been a personal goal, and this year he’s proud to take on the 26.2-mile race while supporting a cause that has shaped his life and community.

“The match has brought so much positivity to my life and has taught me many things about myself and the world along the way. As an only child that could have used a big brother growing up, I am fully committed to this organization and everything it stands for,” he said.

His goal is to raise $10,000 to support the organization’s year-round community, site-based and campus-based programs. 

To support Gladden, visit his fundraiser page.