At The McCourt Foundation, our mission is to empower communities to build a healthier world. We are proud to work with over 125+ charity partners to turn miles into meaningful action. This week, we are highlighting a partner that embodies the spirit of our community and the power of one person to start a movement: Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA).
The Power of a Single Runner
Every great partnership has an origin story. For CHLA, that story began with a single supporter and marathon runner named JP LeVeque. After running the Los Angeles Marathon in 2019 and having an incredible experience fundraising for CHLA on his own, LeVeque’s dedication inspired the hospital to become an official L.A. Marathon charity partner.
Since then, the partnership has created a true ripple effect across the city. What started with one runner has grown into Team CHLA: a committed group of supporters, CHLA team members, and others who participate year after year to support the hospital’s mission to create hope and build healthier futures.
Funding the Greatest Need
The impact of every mile run by Team CHLA is felt throughout the hospital. Most participants fundraise for the Children’s Fund, which is a general fund that supports the areas of the hospital where help is needed most. Through the unrestricted gifts of generous donors, the Children’s Fund enables our hospital to fulfill its mission.
Philanthropic support also supplements vital programs that are not covered by insurance, such as the hospital’s Literally Healing program. From providing critical research funding to supporting daily patient care, the contributions from the marathon community move the needle for families in Los Angeles.
A Community of Care
One of the most inspiring aspects of Team CHLA is the diversity of its participants. The team brings together doctors, nurses, foundation employees, and community supporters.
The competitive spirit is often alive on the course. In previous years, the Neurological Institute hosted a friendly “Battle of the Brains” competition between the neurology and neurosurgery departments to see who could raise the most for brain –related research and surgery. Individual supporters also go above and beyond. Last year, runner Eric Andersen celebrated his 47th birthday by setting a goal to raise $47,000, ultimately raising nearly $60,000 on his own.
Every Step Is Meaningful
For Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, peer –to –peer fundraising is about more than large donations. It is about community and the collective power of every gift. As Team CHLA reminds its fundraisers, whether someone can give five dollars or fifty dollars, every contribution helps support the hospital’s mission.
The McCourt Foundation is honored to provide the platform for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles to continue its life saving work. By coming together through movement, we are not just running a race. We are ensuring a healthier, brighter future for the children of our community.