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Support My Race for Wildlife!
I can't wait to represent Zoo New England at the starting line on Monday, April 21, 2025 in support of wildlife conservation! While training to run 26.2 miles, I have committed to raising critical funds to benefit the zoos' animal care, education, and conservation programs.
Gifts of any amount will make a big impact and help preserve our planet for future generations. All donations are 100% tax-deductible and directly support my fundraising efforts for team Zoo New England.
$10,000 Goal
$5,250
Total Raised
Shannon Jordan
Team Zoo New England
My name is Shannon Jordan, and I am so grateful to have the opportunity to represent Zoo New England (ZNE) at the 129th Boston Marathon!
My connection to ZNE dates back to 2018, when my sister started working on the fundraising team there. Her commitment and love for the zoos has been contagious! My family and I love going to Boston Lights each fall and visiting Franklin Park Zoo on weekends to learn about animals from all over the world. Over the years, we have had the pleasure of meeting many members of the zoo team who are deeply dedicated to providing expert care for the animals and creating fun programs that teach and inspire the next generation.
Along with being my connection to the zoos, Amber also introduced me to the world of running. We started running together over ten years ago, signing up for 5ks for fun, and since then she has gone on to finish countless 1/2 marathons, the NYC Marathon, and the Chicago Marathon. This inspired me to push out of my comfort zone and set ambitious goals for myself, while deepening my love for running along the way. Running has become so much more to me than just a way to stay physically fit - it allows me time to reflect on my thoughts and life. Running has taught me so much about myself and shown me what I am capable of.
When I first dreamed of running my first Boston Marathon, it felt so out of reach. But when I got the incredible news that I could run to support Zoo New England, and my dream started to become a reality, I was overcome with excitement. This fueled me to not only achieve, but surpass my goal of completing a sub-2-hour half marathon at this fall's South Shore Half. Even more rewarding than reaching my personal goals has been showing my two sons that no dream is too big to achieve with hard work and dedication.
With the love and support of my husband Greg and my boys Thomas and Harrison, I am putting my all into training to make the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Raising funds for this terrific organization that has given me and my family so much makes this experience that much more meaningful.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support during this journey to the starting line - and download the B.A.A. Racing App to track my progress on marathon Monday!
Zoo New England
Zoo New England is a nonprofit organization that operates Franklin Park Zoo in Boston and Stone Zoo in Stoneham, MA. The Zoos welcome over one million guests annually and are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Zoo New England is rated 4-stars by Charity Navigator, America's largest independent charity evaluator, so you can give with confidence!
Zoo New England's mission is to inspire people to protect and sustain the natural world for future generations by creating fun and engaging experiences that integrate wildlife and conservation programs, research, and education. To learn more about our Zoos, education programs, and conservation efforts, please visit ZooNewEngland.org.
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