Support Our 2025 “Dawnn for Peace” Marathon Team!
Official Charity Partner for the 129th Boston Marathon® presented by Bank of America
Monday, April 21, 2025
Five champions have been chosen to run for West End House in the 129th Boston Marathon, and we are so excited to cheer them on on Marathon Monday!Â
Each runner has pledged to raise funds for our programs and services. Please support their campaigns by donating below:
Cynthia Franca
Cynthia started running at 18, inspired by her dad, a role model runner. In 2013, she completed her first half marathon and fell in love with long-distance running. Over the years, Cynthia has completed nearly 20 half marathons and one full marathon in 2015. Ten years later, she is ready to run her big dream marathon—the Boston Marathon- and honor her dad, who passed away in 2024.
Adam Romanow
Adam was never a runner until last year when he decided he wanted to run a marathon as his 2024 “misogi”, referring to the personal challenge of doing something difficult or scary to push yourself outside your comfort zone. Adam completed his first marathon in October 2024 and immediately got the bug, and a desire to cross the finish line at his first Boston this spring!
Larissa Michel
Larissa first started running during COVID, waking up bright-and-early to join her dad on his runs on the New Jersey towpath. She quickly caught the running bug and completed a half marathon that fall. Since then, she has continued running regularly and is excited to take on Boston as her first full marathon.
Kat Waskevich
As a lifelong athlete, I’m always pushing my limits. Running my third marathon—and second in six months—is no exception! I can’t wait to experience the energy of this iconic race in April. Running the Boston Marathon has always been a dream of mine. I trained for the Boston Marathon and raised funds for the West End House in 2020 but never got the chance to participate due to the pandemic. I’m thrilled to be back supporting this incredible organization!
Jeff Babcock
Jeff is no stranger to the Boston Marathon, having laced up his running shoes in 2018 to raise money for the West End House. A volunteer and supporter of the organization since 2016, he’s passionate about their mission and the impact they have on the community. Now, he’s back for round two, excited to tackle the marathon again and raise even more money for this incredible cause.
OUR TEAM
The West End House “Dawnn for Peace” Marathon Team plays a vital role in funding programs that support West End House youth. Dawnn Jaffier was a lifelong member of the West End House whose passion was improving the lives of young people across Boston. Before becoming an innocent victim of violence, Dawnn was a mentor and role model for hundreds of young people at the West End House and beyond. Learn more about Dawnn’s life and legacy here.
Each of our runners has the once in a lifetime opportunity to compete in one of the most prestigious races worldwide. By raising funds for West End House, our five runners will honor the legacy of Dawnn Jaffier and impact the lives of thousands of young people across Boston.Â