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March 18, 2025

Team Friends New York's Second Year at the United Airlines Half!

On March 16th, Team Friends New York took on the United Airlines NYC Half for the second year in a row—and this time, they made history! For the first time ever, the race course included a stretch across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, making our runners part of a groundbreaking moment in NYC racing.

Going the Distance for NYC Youth

Despite the rainy conditions, our five dedicated runners took on the challenge with determination and big smiles. From Brooklyn to the streets of Manhattan and through the final stretch in Central Park, they ran not just for themselves but for the youth and families we serve.

For Christine Walsh, a runner on Team Friends New York and a lawyer at Paul Hastings, one of our corporate partners, the race was about more than just the miles. 

“Combining a fitness challenge with fundraising for a great cause is really a win-win,” she shared. “Friends of the Children New York inspired me with its commitment to providing mentorship to youth who need it most. The dedication of time and compassion is fundamental and universal to successful lives.”

And our team didn’t just finish strong—they exceeded their fundraising goal, raising over $14,000 to support long-term mentorship for our Achievers.

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Creating Lasting Impact

This incredible achievement wouldn’t have been possible without our runners’ commitment and the generosity of our supporters. The funds raised will help provide the guidance, stability, and opportunities our Achievers deserve, ensuring they have the resources to thrive. Every dollar raised directly supports long-term, professional mentorship, creating a foundation for success that extends far beyond race day.

A Final Thank You

To our runners—thank you for going the extra mile for NYC youth! Your dedication and hard work made this achievement possible, and we are so proud to have you on Team Friends New York. And to everyone who donated, cheered, and supported along the way—your generosity makes a difference. We are so grateful for this team and can’t wait to take on the challenge again next year!

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