This November, our Chief Strategy Officer, Sarah Hughes, will take on one of the world’s most iconic races: the New York City Marathon.

While 42.2 kilometers through the streets of New York is a remarkable challenge in itself, Sarah’s journey is about much more than crossing a finish line.

She’s using every kilometer to raise awareness and funds for two charities on opposite sides of the Atlantic that share one powerful belief: every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Alongside Big Brothers Big Sisters of Calgary and Area, Sarah is supporting the PC Nicola Hughes Memorial Fund in the United Kingdom, an organization established in memory of PC Nicola Hughes, who was tragically killed in the line of duty in 2012. The charity supports children and young adults whose lives have been impacted by the loss of a close family member through violent crime, helping them rebuild their futures through grants, learning opportunities, and pre-employment support.

Although separated by thousands of kilometers, both organizations are united by a common purpose: ensuring young people have the support, encouragement, and opportunities they need to build brighter futures.

A Personal Commitment

For Sarah, this campaign brings together two causes that are deeply meaningful.

With family and friends serving as police officers and first responders, she has long admired the work of the PC Nicola Hughes Memorial Fund and the families it serves. Here in Calgary, Sarah has spent the last few years helping advance the mission of BBBS Calgary, witnessing firsthand how the simple act of showing up as a mentor can transform the trajectory of a young person’s life.

As someone who proudly calls both Canada and the United Kingdom home, Sarah wanted this campaign to unite the communities that have shaped her life.

Rather than asking supporters to choose between causes, she’s inviting family, friends and colleagues on both sides of the Atlantic to rally behind one shared mission: helping young people overcome adversity, build confidence, and realize their full potential.

Leading by Example

As a professional fundraiser, Sarah has spent much of her career inviting others to invest in causes they believe in.

This time, she’s leading from the front. Every training run, every early morning, and every kilometer represents a personal commitment to giving back. Her goal is not only to complete the marathon but to beat her personal best from the 2022 New York City Marathon.

Every Kilometer Matters

At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Calgary and Area, we know that one caring adult can change the course of a young person’s life.

Today, more than 130 young people in Calgary are waiting to be matched with a mentor. Every volunteer, donor and community champion helps move us closer to ensuring every child has someone in their corner. We’re incredibly proud to support Sarah as she takes on this challenge—not only as our Chief Strategy Officer, but as someone who continues to embody the power of giving back through action.

We invite our community to cheer Sarah on throughout her training and on race day, and, if you’re able, to support her fundraising campaign HERE.

Go, Sarah Go!