MSW alumna raises $10,000+ to end homelessness by running Boston Marathon

As a Crisis Support Clinician at Pine Street Inn, Master of Social Work (MSW) alumna Colleen Leddie sees the daily realities of homelessness up close—both the struggles and the triumphs. Now, she’s lacing up her running shoes to raise critical funds for the organization that’s become both a workplace and a passion.

Training for the Boston Marathon has become more than just a fitness goal—it's a deeply personal mission. “I’ve been balancing a lot over the past few years, but I’m making the marathon a priority—this is definitely going to be my year!” Leddie said.

Pine Street Inn offers a wide range of services to individuals experiencing homelessness, including supportive housing, which is where Leddie focuses her work as part of the Housing Clinical Services team. Running the marathon is a way to support those efforts while raising awareness and funds.

“There’s no better time to commit to something of this magnitude,” Leddie said. “Fundraising for Pine Street Inn allows me to combine my passion for running with my commitment to ending homelessness. That creates a powerful motivation that fuels both my training and my fundraising efforts.”

But the decision to take on Boston’s iconic 26.2-mile course with her Pine Street Inn team has deeper roots than just work. Leddie’s aunt—who was like a second mother—ran the Boston Marathon multiple times in the 1990s and early 2000s. “I started running with her as a kid. I loved spending time with her and hearing her stories, even though I didn’t really like running at the time,” she said.

After her aunt passed away, running took on new meaning. It became a way to process grief, find focus, and stay connected to her memory. “She’s gone now, but running is how I stay close to her,” she said. “Each footstep is a tribute to her love and inspiration—and also a way for me to support a cause I truly believe in.”

With marathon day approaching, Leddie is grateful for the chance to run for something bigger than herself. With just five days to go, Leddie has already raised a staggering $11,994 for Pine Street Inn.

“This is about community, connection, and purpose,” she said. “And I’m proud to carry all of that with me, every step of the way.”

If you’d like to contribute to her campaign, you can donate here.