New Smyrna Beach native Casey Sparks is embarking on an ambitious charitable challenge: seven marathons on seven continents in seven consecutive days. The effort is designed to raise $100,000 for No Longer Fatherless, a nonprofit that pairs boys without father figures in Volusia and Flagler counties with caring mentors.
Why the cause matters to Sparks
“I lost my father when I was 18, and it’s something that really caught my attention,” Sparks told WESH 2 News from Cape Town, South Africa, where he was completing the final leg of his journey. “One of the guys that’s a part of it comes to the run club that I host in New Smyrna, and when I took on this journey, I was actually really lucky to do it. I wanted to give back, so that was the reason behind it.”
The marathon marathon
The challenge covers a total of 184 miles in just seven days, a grueling schedule that demands both physical stamina and logistical coordination. Sparks has already completed marathons in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Antarctica, and will finish with the Cape Town marathon in Africa.
Community impact
No Longer Fatherless focuses on providing consistent mentorship to boys who lack a father’s presence, aiming to improve outcomes in education, behavior, and overall well‑being. By targeting families in Volusia and Flagler counties, the organization hopes to strengthen the traditional family unit—a core value for many Central Florida residents.
Fundraising goal and progress
The $100,000 target will support mentor recruitment, training, and program expansion. Sparks is encouraging local businesses, churches, and individuals to donate, emphasizing that every contribution helps a child gain a trusted adult in their corner.
How to support
Donations can be made directly through the No Longer Fatherless website. Sparks also invites community members to attend his upcoming local run club events, where he will share stories from his global marathon tour and promote the cause.
Local pride
While the feat is international in scope, its heart remains firmly planted in New Smyrna Beach. Residents have rallied around Sparks, offering words of encouragement and pledging support. The effort showcases how a single dedicated citizen can leverage personal passion—running—to uplift families and reinforce community bonds across Central Florida.
Watch the full interview with Sparks at the top of the original story and learn more about No Longer Fatherless on its website.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
