Thank you for visiting my Personal Fundraising Page. Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to make a contribution to my fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!

Why I am fundraising for ReadBoston for the Boston Marathon: I have always been an avid reader. I grew up with my parents and siblings reading books to me every night until I learned how to read on my own. I was the type of kid who would check out the maximum number of books at the library every week, and I still try to read nightly before bed. I was lucky in that I was exposed to books at such a young age, and I realize that many less fortunate children do not get that kind of attention or have access to great books like I did.

It is important that every child learn to read at grade level by third grade. ReadBoston is a non-profit children's literacy organization that supports that mission by providing books and resources to inner city schools, after-school programs, childhood centers, and families in need, while also organizing after-school reading programs, fun book festivals and book drives for kids. The organization also inspires children to want to read for their own enjoyment by holding reading events, distributing books, and introducing children to local authors.

My love for reading is what got me interested in a writing career. I started writing for my local newspaper when I was in high school at just sixteen years old. I have worked for publications like Men's Health magazine, Boston magazine, AAA publications and now Rhode Island Monthly magazine. Now it's time to give back while doing something I've always wanted to do: run the Boston Marathon.

Running the Boston Marathon ties together two of my most favorite things: reading and running. I want to teach kids to love reading and writing as much as I do. I will be going into schools this winter to read to children in hopes that I might get them excited about reading and writing. Not only am I running 26.2 miles, but I'll be helping the kids directly, too.

Thank you for your help.

Jamie Coelho