Filling in the Blanks is proud to be an official charity partner of the 2026 United Airlines NYC Half. This is our second year fielding a team of runners committed to closing the hunger gap for local children and their families.
Each team member has set an ambitious goal for supporting our work. Get to know these enthusiastic runners, and join us in cheering them on every step of the way.
Samantha Blend
Samantha began volunteering at Filling in the Blanks through her employer, Silver Golub & Teitell LLP, a longtime partner. As she’s learned more about our programs and the families impacted, Samantha’s support has only grown. “It was an easy decision to take my support to the next level.”
She’s looking forward to returning to the streets of NYC after having run the marathon in 2024. “The energy that NYC brings to races is unbeatable. It can renew your faith in humanity to see how the city comes out to support and cheer on runners. Running it on behalf of an organization I really believe in makes it even more exciting.”
Krystyna Gancoss
We also have Silver, Golub & Teitell to thank for Krystyna, an inaugural member of our recently formed Associate Board.
“I’m excited to combine my love of running with the chance to further support Filling in the Blanks. And of course, I’m looking forward to the incredible race day energy on such an iconic course!”
Robin Johnson
This will be Robin’s third NYC Half! “I chose to run on behalf of Filling in the Blanks because of the powerful work they do to fight childhood food insecurity. Running for a cause that directly supports children in need gives purpose to every mile and makes this experience more meaningful.”
Jen Moran
Special shout-out to Filling in the Blanks Special Events Coordinator and Development Assistant, Jen!
“I am so excited for the energy and excitement race day will bring! This is my first major race, and I am excited for it to be in NYC! Running through the city has always been a dream of mine, and I am excited to be able to experience that feeling and reach this goal (and run over the Brooklyn Bridge)!”
Sarah “SJ” Russell
Sarah is an avid runner. She’s completed over a dozen marathons and many more half marathons, but the NYC Half was still on her bucket list.
Sarah chose to support Filling in the Blanks after witnessing the real, tangible, and measurable help we provide to local children. “I want to help bring more awareness to Filling in the Blanks so that it can continue to grow and help more communities throughout Connecticut and beyond.”
Kaitlyn Shouvlin
Kaitlyn is looking forward to officially checking a half-marathon off of her bucket list and showing her kids how important it is to have dreams and chase them! And she is PUMPED to be doing it on behalf of Filling in the Blanks.
“I couldn’t say yes fast enough. Filling in the Blanks is such an incredible organization, and this was an opportunity to increase support financially and bring more awareness to them.”