Running for a Brighter Future: The 2025 Boston Marathon

The Boston Marathon isn’t just a race—it’s a celebration of community, perseverance, and purpose. The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence is honored to be among the 174 organizations selected for the 2025 Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program. Through this program, runners pledge to raise funds for causes that promote healthier, stronger communities—a mission at the heart of the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence.

This year, three dedicated runners—Hugo Compere, Simon Gitau, and Kyle Helfrich—will represent the Club on Marathon Monday, each bringing a unique story, a passion for the organization, and a personal connection to its mission of empowering local youth to thrive.

Meet Our Runners

2025 Boston Marathon

Hugo Compere

A project manager and father from the Boston area, Hugo’s life revolves around his faith, family, and fitness. Growing up in an underserved community, Hugo understands firsthand the transformative opportunities the Boys & Girls Club provides. From academic tutoring to a safe space to build friendships, he recognizes the Club’s vital impact on local youth.

“I have seen what it’s like for those who don’t have the opportunities provided at the Club. For those reasons and many more, the Boys & Girls Club is a pillar in the communities it serves. I am delighted to run again this year to support the Club,” he shares.

Support Hugo, here. 

Simon Gitau

With a strong history of marathon running and a commitment to philanthropy, Simon is excited to dedicate his 2025 Boston Marathon journey to the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence.

“The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence holds a special place in my heart,” Simon shares. “I firmly believe in the Club’s work, which provides invaluable opportunities and support to the youth in our community.”

His past races include the 2024 Boston Marathon, as well as marathons in Philadelphia and Memphis, all of which raised funds for important causes. Simon sees the race as a powerful opportunity to bring awareness to the Club’s mission and to rally the community for lasting change, saying, “This marathon, combined with a focused fundraising effort, can make a meaningful impact on the lives of the young people served by the Boys & Girls Club.” 

Support Simon, here.

Kyle Helfrich

North Andover native Kyle Helfrich has deep roots in the Lawrence community through his family’s business, Helfrich Brothers Boiler Works, and years of volunteering at the Club. His company has supported the Club’s mission for many years, contributing to initiatives such as the Christmas Sponsor-a-Family Event, which provides holiday gifts to local families in need.

Kyle recognizes the Club’s vital role in supporting underprivileged children by offering a safe, enriching environment where they can learn, grow, and develop new skills outside of school. Running the Boston Marathon has always been a dream of his, and supporting the Boys & Girls Club makes it even more meaningful.

“I could not be more excited to support an organization and community that has been home to my family and me for so many years,” he says.

Support Kyle, here.

Making an Impact

 

Every year, the funds raised by the Boys & Girls Club’s Boston Marathon team go toward the areas of greatest need, ensuring the Club can continue its vital work. Founded to foster physical, emotional, intellectual, and social growth, the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence enables local youth—especially those facing the greatest challenges—to reach their full potential.

Let’s cheer on Hugo, Simon, and Kyle as they hit the pavement in April, running not just for themselves but for a brighter future for the children of Greater Lawrence. Together, we can cross the finish line for a stronger, healthier community!

Support our runners and help us reach our fundraiser goals, here.