“Running with Purpose. Running for Love.”

In February of 2024, our world was forever changed when our daughter, Raylee, tragically passed away. The grief and emptiness that followed are things no parent is ever prepared for. Life as we knew it shattered.And yet, even in the darkness, a spark of hope began to rise.To honor Raylee’s life, we knew remembering her wasn’t enough, we had to live in a way that carried her spirit forward. Raylee was determined, compassionate, and full of quiet strength. She loved animals, believed in kindness and healthy living, and dreamed of running alongside her dad, who once ran marathons.From that dream, Running for Raylee was born. What began as a way to honor her memory has become something more: a symbol of perseverance, of community, and of hope. Running is no longer just about miles, it’s about moving forward, one step at a time, even when the weight of grief feels unbearable.This nonprofit is about more than running. It is about love that endures, legacy that inspires, and healing that continues. By lifting up families who are hurting, we keep Raylee’s light alive. And in doing so, we discover that even in tragedy, hope can rise.Whether you’ve experienced loss yourself or simply want to stand alongside those who have, we invite you to join us. Together, we can carry Raylee’s light into the world, bright enough to guide others through their darkest nights and toward hope.

At Running for Raylee, we know the heartbreak of losing a child. It is a pain that forever changes life, a silence, an emptiness that words cannot explain. In those moments, it feels as if the world has stopped.And yet, even in the deepest grief, hope can rise.That hope is why we exist: to walk beside families through their darkest days and remind them they are not alone.The funds we raise bring immediate relief and a spark of light, helping cover funeral costs, unpaid bills, and the urgent needs that weigh so heavily on grieving parents. But beyond meeting those needs, we believe hope is found in the journey forward. That’s why we provide ongoing care, connecting families with compassionate volunteers, licensed counselors, and trusted organizations who can guide them toward healing.Our commitment is simple: to ease today’s burdens and to hold tomorrow’s hope.Running for Raylee is more than a nonprofit, it’s a community built on love, resilience, and faith in what is still possible. Raylee’s spirit lives on in every act of kindness, every family we lift up, and every step we take together toward hope.

When a family loses a child, it can feel as if the world has gone dark. But hope shines brightest when others step in to help carry the weight. Your generosity becomes that light, reminding hurting families they are not alone.Here’s how you can bring hope to life:Donate – Every gift is an act of hope. A one-time donation meets urgent needs today, while joining our Legacy Fund with a monthly gift of just $19.99 ensures families receive consistent, dependable support when they need it most.Volunteer – Hope is also found in presence. By giving your time, listening ear, or compassionate heart, you help create a community that understands and uplifts.Fundraise Together – Hope multiplies in community. From pickleball tournaments to 5Ks, partnering with us through events brings people together while raising the support families so desperately need.Spread the Word – Hope grows when shared. By telling Raylee’s story and our mission, you help extend this light to families who are searching for comfort and to others who are ready to help.Every act of generosity, especially your financial gift, becomes a beacon of hope for families walking through unimaginable loss. Together, we can carry Raylee’s light forward and turn grief into healing.