How volunteering at Pine Street Inn led him to the Boston Marathon

Benjamin Bryant first volunteered at the organization as a teen, which sparked his career in housing policy. For him, running the marathon is a full-circle moment.

March 8, 2025

1 minute to read

In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon athletes share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston.

Name: Benjamin Bryant
Age: 24
City: Boston

I’m running the 2025 Boston Marathon because this race has long held a special place in my heart. Growing up just a short walk from the route, I spent almost every Marathon Monday watching in awe as runners flew by while the entire city turned into one big, rowdy, supportive block party. There’s nothing quite like it — the way the race brings together people from every neighborhood, every background, and every corner of the world. It’s the ultimate reminder that this city, for all its quirks, is built on resilience, community, and a little bit of madness (or revolutionary spirit!).

This year holds an even deeper meaning for me. I’m honored to run in support of Pine Street Inn, a Boston-based homeless services organization whose incredible impact on the city has inspired me since I first volunteered with the group as a teenager. Pine Street shaped my perspective on homelessness and housing security. Volunteering at the organization taught me that home is not just a place to shelter, but the foundation for dignity, opportunity, and a better life. Pine Street does more than provide shelter — it creates pathways out of homelessness. From housing to job training, Pine Street helps people find a place to live and build a future. Ultimately, my early exposure to the group led me to a career in developing housing policy. Running for Pine Street Inn is a full-circle way to give back.

At the end of the day, this race isn’t just about crossing a finish line. It’s about showing up for a community and an organization that has given me so much, and I couldn’t be prouder to do it in the best city in the world!

Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.