On Saturday afternoon, the bustling grounds of AutoZone Park in Memphis became a hub of service as volunteers prepared food and goodie bags for participants in the 25th annual St. Jude Memphis Marathon weekend. The effort, organized by St. Jude’s local chapter, underscores the deep ties between the race, the charity, and the Memphis community.
Volunteer power drives the marathon
More than 3,600 volunteers are expected to help make the race weekend possible, from packing bags to cheering runners along the course. Registration remains open for individuals and groups who want to join the effort, offering a chance for more residents to contribute to the cause.
“St. Jude expresses the need for involvement monetarily for volunteers to help in any way they can to get the dollars in to do the things that they do. So, I feel I’m in this community. They’re part of the community. I wanna do what I can to help with their various initiatives,” said Wendy Wider‑Burroughs, a longtime volunteer who has participated in previous marathon events.
How the bags support St. Jude’s mission
Each bag packed contains nutritious snacks, water, and a small assortment of items designed to keep runners energized and motivated. The donations generated from the marathon directly fund St. Jude’s research and treatment programs, which focus on finding cures and saving children with life‑threatening illnesses.
By turning a popular sporting event into a fundraising engine, the marathon not only promotes health and fitness but also channels community enthusiasm into tangible support for a cause that aligns with many families’ values of compassion and service.
Community impact and future outlook
The marathon has grown steadily since its inception, and this year’s volunteer turnout reflects a broader trend of local engagement. Organizers note that the number of volunteers has risen each year, indicating a strengthening bond between Memphis residents and St. Jude’s mission.
Beyond the race weekend, the momentum generated by volunteers often spills over into year‑round support for St. Jude, including donations, awareness campaigns, and additional community events.
How to get involved
Anyone interested in helping can sign up through the official marathon website or contact the St. Jude Memphis chapter directly. Volunteers are needed for bag‑packing stations, course‑side cheering squads, and logistical support throughout the weekend.
With the marathon just weeks away, the call for volunteers remains open, offering a meaningful way for Memphis residents to serve their neighbors, uphold family values, and contribute to a cause that saves children’s lives.
Original reporting: Action News 5 WMC (Gray) — read the source article.
