Vincent English is running to help the homeless

"I want people to know that no matter how bad things get, you can always make your life better."

April 13, 2024

1 minute to read

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

Name: Vincent English
Age: 42
From: Yarmouth

I’m a 42-year-old father of two from Yarmouth, MA. I’m running my first marathon as a member of Pine Street Inn’s 2024 Boston Marathon® team.

I’m excited to run the Boston Marathon for Team Pine Street to show that people can turn their lives around and come back from adversity.

I’m passionate about making a difference in the world. I have experienced homelessness and dealt with substance use disorder, so I know what it’s like to struggle and to work to get your life back together.

I began running as part of my literal road to recovery over the past five years. I started running to help process what had happened in my life and to get back to being healthy.

When I was struggling with substance use, I could have lost it all — my wife, my kids, my job — everything. I found that running kept me on track. As a member of the Boston Local Pipefitters Union 537, I know about hard work.

I want to show people that recovery is achievable through hard work and a commitment to yourself, and I want people to know that no matter how bad things get, you can always make your life better.

By running for Pine Street, I want to inspire others and provide hope to those in need.

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