![Main fundraiser photo](https://images.gofundme.com/hUjY2DCdVWK_lUdkhz0CY4zj6ro=/720x405/https://i.ytimg.com/vi/r2KV7aIVDBQ/0.jpg)
Backyard Marathon
My name is Matthew LeBlanc. I live in Somersworth, NH; and I am a teacher at Dover Middle School. It's understatement to say that it has been a challenging start to 2020 for everyone. COVID-19 has changed our entire lives. As a teacher, I'm very concerned by how this is going to impact the lives of students in our communities.
While running events definitely don't seem as important when looking at the larger picture, I spent the winter months getting ready for races only to find myself stuck in my house feeling powerless.
When coming up with math problems for my students to complete remotely, I got the idea to measure out my backyard to see how many laps it would take to run a marathon. Turns out, each loop is 222 feet. Which is 1/24th of a mile. Making a marathon a simple 623 laps.
So a LeBlanc backyard marathon was born. I will be running to raise awareness of the importance of staying local/home, as well as to raise awareness/funds for our local food pantry. The Community Food Pantry provides services for families in Somersworth and Rollinsford NH, and Berwick and Lebanon ME. They provide food for dozens of families in the area. All funds will be given directly to their organization to help feed those in need.
If you have the resources, please donate a few bucks (or consider donating to your local food bank). If you are inspired to do your own "stay home" challenge, let me know! I will be live streaming the event on YouTube, so stay tuned for the link!