Join Team WhyHunger as we run toward a hunger-free future.
We’re thrilled to announce that WhyHunger has once again been named an Official Charity Partner of the TCS New York City Marathon, taking place this year on Sunday, November 1. This partnership is a meaningful way to support food security—working with the running community to advance health and the right to nutritious food for all.
The 2026 marathon is the 50th anniversary of this iconic race. Team WhyHunger runners will join more than 55,000 athletes traversing 26.2 miles across all five boroughs of New York City. They’ll raise critical funds to support our work connecting millions of people to emergency food resources, funding community-led solutions to hunger, and advocating for food justice.
“Running has the power to bring people together around a shared purpose, and we’re grateful to dedicated WhyHunger runners who are putting in the miles—and the fundraising—to help us end hunger at its roots. Their commitment inspires us and directly fuels our ability to make a real impact in people’s lives.”
—Jenique Jones, Executive Director of WhyHunger
Meet the WhyHunger Runners
The incredible WhyHunger runners are training hard to make a difference. Each runner commits to raising funds that support our work while taking on the challenge of completing one of the world’s most iconic marathons.
Jason LaPorte
Jason LaPorte is a lifelong New York City resident who brings the same discipline and persistence to his career, his training, and his community involvement. He is the Chief Technology Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at Power Consulting Group, where he helps organizations—particularly nonprofits—use technology securely and effectively to support their missions. Outside of work, Jason is an avid ice hockey player and endurance runner who thrives on challenges that require preparation, resilience, and teamwork.
“I’m proud to support WhyHunger’s work fighting hunger and advancing long-term solutions that address the root causes of food insecurity in New York City and beyond.”
Meredith Wilshere
Meredith Wilshere is a writer who spends her time trying to thrift the perfect coat and meet her yearly Goodreads goal. She is an author, marathoner, and pop music apologist.
“I’ve always loved how connected WhyHunger is with NYC, through various programs and local initiatives. As a resident in NYC I see the disparity and impact that it has on communities. Access to healthy food is important at every level. Seeing how quickly people’s access to food can be taken away makes this issue all the more relevant and important.”
Ray Carlucci
Ray Carlucci grew up in New Jersey and studied Finance and Accounting at the University of Miami. He came back up north after college and has been in NYC ever since. Ray loves the beach, running, Italian food, golf, traveling, and music. This will be his third time running the NYC Marathon and he’s excited to run with WhyHunger.
“I’ve followed the amazing work WhyHunger does most of my life and am grateful for the opportunity to help fundraise to further its mission. Hunger and food inequality unfortunately impact so many people around the world. It is especially a big issue in New York City, given the cost of living. There needs to be systems in place so that everyone has access to nutritious meals.”
Leslie Valverde
Leslie Valverde lives in Sacramento, California and has completed 10 marathons, including the NYC Marathon five times. Running is one of the most consistent and empowering parts of her life, helping her navigate challenges, stay grounded and push through difficult seasons.
“As a child, my mother and I relied on food banks and community meals during times of food insecurity. That experience never left me. Running for WhyHunger brings two parts of my life together— using something that has strengthened me to give back to a cause that supports families in moments like the ones I remember.”
Support Our Runners
You can be part of the movement by supporting Team WhyHunger runners as they train, fundraise, and race toward a hunger-free future. Visit our marathon page to make a donation and follow their journeys to race day on November 1.
Together, we’re running toward a world where nutritious food is a human right for all. Join us.
