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According to a press release published on NYC Newswire, New York Road Runners celebrated Global Volunteer Month with its annual Volunteer Hall of Fame Award Ceremony and Appreciation Dinner, recognizing volunteers who support races, community programs, and major events across the city.
In 2025, more than 22,000 volunteers contributed over 112,000 hours across events. In addition, 116 volunteer captains served nearly 2,100 hours at NYRR Open Runs, which take place in parks across New York City and Jersey City.
New York Road Runners celebrated Global Volunteer Month with its annual Volunteer Hall of Fame Award Ceremony and Appreciation Dinner. The event recognized volunteers who support races, community programs, and major events across the city.
In 2025, more than 22,000 volunteers contributed over 112,000 hours. In addition, 116 volunteer captains supported NYRR Open Runs across multiple parks in New York City and Jersey City.
“From the TCS New York City Marathon to the 5th Avenue Mile and all the Open Runs and weekly races in between, New York Road Runners could not do what we do without our thousands of volunteers,” said Rob Simmelkjaer, New York Road Runners CEO. “While it’s important to recognize and thank these members of our community whose hundreds of hours of dedication make it possible to produce best-in-class experiences for our athletes year-round, Global Volunteer Month is a great opportunity to celebrate and elevate their outstanding efforts.”
Three individuals were inducted into the NYRR Volunteer Hall of Fame this year. They were recognized for years of service and consistent involvement.
Dwayne Evans, Robert Moore, and Darnley Simon each have long histories with NYRR. Their stories reflect the broader impact of volunteer work across the running community.
Evans began volunteering in 1990 after encouragement from his track coach. Since then, he has returned every year to support the New York City Marathon. His family often joins him, turning the experience into a shared tradition.
Moore’s journey began after a health diagnosis in 2015. He worked with NYRR to launch an Open Run site in Inwood. Over time, he improved his health and became a dedicated volunteer leader.
“I just want people to feel like I’m there for them,” said Moore. “When they come to Open Run, they will see me there.”
Simon started volunteering in 1995 and has supported hundreds of races. Over time, she also became a participant, completing several marathons herself.
“To me, volunteering is like creating a new family—there’s such camaraderie, and it’s so much fun,” said Simon. “It’s a great thing to be recognized, but I don’t do it for the recognition. I do it because I enjoy it.”
In addition to the Hall of Fame inductees, five volunteers received the Outstanding Volunteer Award. These individuals were recognized for their dedication and service across multiple events.
Their contributions include race support, pacing, medical assistance, and leadership roles. Many of them have logged more than 100 volunteer hours in a single year.
For example, Kenneth Grumer became a volunteer leader after first getting involved during the pandemic. Otto Lam has paced dozens of races over the past decade. Meanwhile, Beth Schmal has supported marathon medical teams for years.
Cynthia Sung and John Wagner also demonstrated long-term commitment through consistent participation in races and community programs.
NYRR also honored 21 individuals through the Volunteer Service Award. Each recipient contributed more than 100 volunteer hours.
In addition, 12 medical captains were recognized for their role in supporting marathon operations. These individuals assist with clinical care and logistics throughout race events.
Their work ensures that large-scale races, including the marathon, run safely and efficiently.
The volunteer program plays a key role in supporting more than 60 annual races and year-round community initiatives. These include youth programs and free weekly runs across multiple neighborhoods.
As a result, volunteers help strengthen local communities while supporting public health and fitness.
The NYRR Volunteer Hall of Fame, launched in 2021, continues to recognize individuals who demonstrate leadership and long-term commitment. Each year, inductees are selected during Global Volunteer Month.
For more updates on running events and community fitness initiatives, explore our NYC Sport Network coverage of races, volunteer programs, and citywide athletic events across New York City.
New York Road Runners will continue to expand volunteer opportunities across its events and programs. The organization offers more than 28,000 volunteer roles annually.
Further details were first outlined in an official press release distributed via NYC Newswire.
What is NYRR?
New York Road Runners is a nonprofit organization that organizes races and community running programs across New York City.
How many volunteers support NYRR events?
More than 22,000 volunteers contributed over 112,000 hours in 2025.
What is the Volunteer Hall of Fame?
It is a recognition program honoring individuals who show long-term dedication and leadership in volunteering.