The Boston Marathon^® presented by Bank of America is coming, and emotions are running high—and not just because athletes will have the chance to complete the world’s oldest (and arguably most prestigious) marathon. Alongside those hoping to crush a personal best, check off a bucket list race, or just cross the finish line, many runners are participating for a reason that goes deeper than running. On April 21, the starting line at the 129th Boston Marathon will include more than 2,900 athletes representing partner organizations through the Bank of America Official Charity Program. This year’s Boston Marathon Giving Day, March 20, helped supercharge donations to the 176 causes these athletes have been hustling to support. That includes representing their nonprofits in smaller community races leading up to Boston, like the Bank of America and SELF Reason to Run 5K on Giving Day. As Marathon Monday fast approaches, we spoke to three fundraising athletes about the personal connections driving them to pound out 26.2 miles for their cause and why these special nonprofits are so worthy of your attention (and donation). They also opened up about the emotional journeys that have led them to the starting line. Read their inspiring stories, and join Bank of America in supporting these athletes and organizations making a major impact in our community.