Why I am running for SMILE Mass?
On August 16th , I will be running in my first Falmouth Road Race. I am so excited to participate alongside 15 other SMILE Mass runners as part of the SMILE Mass annual fundraising event.
I am running this race for the many people I have met in my life both professionally and personally who have amazed me with their resilience and perseverance despite many physical challenges. Summer is here and for families raising children or adults with disabilities very simple acts like taking a trip to the beach, the playground, or even to dinner can present challenges due to access. Will the beach have a ramp for a wheelchair or special chair available to navigate the sand? Will the playground surface allow for a chair to roll over it? Will there be items my child can access with the rest of their friends? Will the restaurant with the nice outdoor seating actually have a ramp to get out there? So many little everyday things that people take for granted when they get ready to leave the house for some fun. SMILE Mass helps make the world a more accessible place for all by providing equipment and creating environments that help break down these barriers for people with disabilities.
Please consider making a donation big or small to help provide the monetary resources needed to keep the mission of SMILE Mass going, inclusive recreation opportunities for all!
Description
SMILE Mass is excited to be participating in our 16th Falmouth Road Race on August 16th 2026.
The Falmouth event is one of SMILE Mass' favorite events as the crowd, the course and the scenery are all breathtaking. The 7 mile course is challenging to say the least but the enthusiasm of the crowd, the incredible views of the ocean with waves crashing beside and the thrill of running as part of the SMILE Mass team is beyond description.
The mission of SMILE Mass is to help families raising children or adults with disabilities enjoy happy, healthy memories through vacation and recreation experiences. We run for those who can't.
Over the last 16 years, SMILE Mass has:
* Launched our newest and fastest growing program, Club SMILE Mass, which allows children and adults with disabilities to enjoy gym, swim, social group, Bingo, music therapy and so much more with like-minded people.
* Donated over 180 floating beach wheelchairs to public beaches throughout New England making the joy of a day at the beach to be accessible for all.
*Created an Equipment Loaner Program that allows families to borrow adapted equipment free of charge for a day, a week, or longer.
* Purchased and opened an accessible beach rental in Truro, MA (Cape Cod) so families can enjoy a beach vacation.
* Built several accessible playgrounds in Metrowest area of Massachusetts.
None of this could have been accomplished without support from caring individuals just like you! Together we can build a world where everyone belongs despite disability. Visit our page at www.smilemass.org or watch our heartwarming video that aired on WCVB-5 for Good to donate or learn more about our mission.
Thank you from the bottom of our heart,
Lotte, Susan and the rest of the SMILE Mass Team
Recent donors
| Donation date | Donor name | Donation amount |
|---|---|---|
| Jun 24 | Marybeth Martin | Undisclosed amount |