Published On: November 6, 2014

Today’s post was written by Sara Croft
Could you run a 5K, 13.1 miles or 26.2 miles? What if it was the coldest day of the year so far? These individuals not only completed their runs in very cold weather, they spent months before the event fundraising on behalf of Easterseals Crossroads.
2014 marked the second year of a partnership between our organization and theIndianapolis Monumental Marathon, which took place on Saturday, November 1. Thousands of people packed the streets of downtown Indianapolis to participate in this race, and five of those were there to support Easterseals Crossroads.
Using FirstGiving, an online fundraising platform, these individuals created pages to express why they were logging miles for children and adults with disabilities. Here are the results:
Advisory Board member Dean Weseli says “Easterseals Crossroads is a fantastic organization and Indianapolis’ largest resource for those with disabilities, special needs, and challenges. Through the support they provide, individuals are able to experience more independence and greater dignity in their everyday lives. As an Advisory Board member of Easterseals Crossroads, I am proud to be affiliated with such an organization.” Dean raised $1,085 with his campaign!
Executive Administrative Assistant Sara South says “Easterseals Crossroads provides services that help people with disabilities enjoy greater independence and dignity, and it’s also a great place to work. I am proud to be a part of this great team.” Sara raised $1,000 with her campaign as was the very first person to set up a page and reach her goal!
Crossroads Guild member Ginny Rabbit-Jenkins has a long history associated with our organization. In 1936, Mrs. William Gavin, her grandmother, founded what is now Easterseals Crossroads after helping a club of 12 teenagers with disabilities form for socialization. “Many years later, I hope people see my grandmother’s traits of volunteerism, honor, duty and compassion for others in our community were firmly instilled in me.” Ginny raised $916 with her campaign!
IT Manager Rick Krakora has ran in the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon for two years now. Rick played varsity soccer in high school and currently coaches is son’s soccer team. Recently, Rick gave the first kick at an Indy Eleven game supporting Easterseals Crossroads. Rick raised $350 this year!
Adult Day Services Special Events and Activity Coordinator Gina Schultz solicitation donations for her FirstGiving page, but sadly she injured her foot a few weeks prior to the big race day. Gina has played soccer for years in school and has been active ever since. Her bright personality always brings a smile to your face when you talk to her and she has made quite the difference with Community Day Supports. Gina raised $155 with her campaign!
Accounts Payable Bookkeeper Cindy Sanders started running to focus on fitness and health two years ago. Since then, she has participated in numerous 5K’s (sometimes twice in one weekend), hiked through parts of upper Michigan and recently completed her first 13.1. Cindy raised $150 with her campaign!
We would also like to thank the 37 volunteers who worked the expo and water station on our behalf. Without thousands of volunteers, the event would not be able to take place. Thank you to everyone who joined us as a volunteer, race participant, and fundraiser!
Please join us in thanking these participants for supporting Easterseals Crossroads by running the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon! We hope to see you next year on Saturday, November 7!