This athlete is running the Boston Marathon to support youth mentorship

"The only solution I’ve seen truly make a difference is connecting these kids with caring mentors who help guide them toward a positive path into a supportive community."

Greg Frattaroli is running the Boston Marathon for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts (BBBSEM). Greg Frattaroli

By Jessika Landon

March 30, 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. Looking for more race day content? Sign up for Boston.com’s pop-up Boston Marathon newsletter.

Name: Greg Frattaroli
Age: 30
From: Newtown, Conn.

Growing up in Newtown, Connecticut, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of isolation and anger in young people who feel lost and unheard. Since 2012, I have searched for meaningful ways to address this challenge. The only solution I’ve seen truly make a difference is connecting these kids with caring mentors who help guide them toward a positive path into a supportive community. That is why I’m running the Boston Marathon for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts (BBBSEM), the state’s leading one-to-one mentoring program for youth.

I got involved with BBBSEM as part of the agency’s Big Futures Mentoring program, which matches high school freshmen with adult volunteers who build mentoring relationships and leverage experiential learning to prepare them for post-secondary success. Juan and I instantly connected over humor and sharing jokes. I was matched for two years and now serve on the nonprofit’s board of advisors, specifically the finance and audit and program innovation committees.

BBBSEM works tirelessly to provide mentorship and guidance to children who need it most, bridging gaps and building brighter futures across Greater Boston, Cape Cod, and the Islands. The organization meets children where they are, offering encouragement, stability, and hope when they need it most. This mission is deeply personal to me, and running for this cause is both a privilege and a responsibility.