2013 BOSTON MARATHON VOLUNTEERS

The 2013 Boston Marathon is a story of extreme courage, love, care, talent and resilience. Our volunteers displayed these qualities in countless ways.

It was a perfectly orchestrated marathon and the tragic acts of that day can’t rob us of that accomplishment. We achieved that precision together and your contribution should be celebrated. Please take time to recognize your individual and collective work.

Every year the Boston Athletic Association puts the world’s greatest sporting event into the hands of our 8,500 volunteers. On behalf of John Hancock Financial, our principal sponsor, and all of our other sponsors and supporters, we have never been more proud of your work.

When chaos and confusion struck you reacted intuitively and leapt into action whether you were in Boston or elsewhere. Your contributions during that uncertain time displayed the true compassion, spirit and professionalism Boston Marathon volunteers are known for.

We know that all of you were deeply affected by the tragedy on Monday, April 15. If you would like to share with us anything at all, please contact us in whatever way you would like. We encourage you to share your stories as a powerful way of healing.

If you are experiencing overwhelming feelings of anxiety, anger or fear, please reach out to a professional. We have a list of resources posted at the button below:

We all continue to cope with the tragic events of this year and marvel at the many heroic actions that followed. We also know you are already looking forward to next year. We would be proud to welcome you back for the 2014 Boston Marathon on April 21, 2014 and couldn’t do it without you.

Respectfully,
Elisabeth Worthing