John Kim 
Since its introduction in 1897, the Boston Marathon was an event that celebrated the incredible accomplishments of thousands of runners who tested not only their physical capabilities, but also the human “will” to run an unthinkable 26.2 mile stretch of road. During this annual event, friends and family gather to support their loved ones who gallantly pound the pavement for hours, embracing the finish line with an unstoppable rush of pride that is typically accompanied by super-human feats. This Monday’s Boston Marathon running, as we all know, was marred by a despicable act of inhuman terrorism – three dead, and hundreds injured as a result of an unthinkable act that rocked the nation. After events like these, we’re left confused and desperate for answers while appreciating the value of human life, but the human spirit kicks in and the desire to lend a hand victoriously rises – that’s been the American way for centuries.
Here’s one way to help: Packer Shoes in New Jersey is donating all the proceeds from the sales of the New Balance “Boston Marathon” Pack directly to the Boys and Girls Club in Dorchester, MA, located in the hometown of eight-year-old victim Martin Richard who died Monday while waiting for his father to cross the finish line. Every single penny from the sale of both the mens and women’s New Balance 890BOS and 990BOS between April 18th and the 22nd will be paid forward to assist an area shaken by tragedy. Read Packer Shoes’ words below and do your part to contribute by purchasing one of the pairs at Packer Shoes tomorrow beginning at 3pm EST.
From Packer Shoes:
Boston, MA — There is not a company in our industry that does not have some connection to this great city. From the retailers and creative minds who push the envelope of creativity daily and the companies and agencies that are in the surrounding towns and communities, the collection of talent up the i-95 corridor is one with vast history, integrity and embodies the true American spirit. Through the years we have been in business we have been fortunate enough to have relationships with great partners who have not only been wonderful to work with on the business and creative side but relationships that over time have turned into genuine friendships built from mutual respect and admiration.
What happened Monday afternoon in the midst of what should have been a celebration of this incredible spirit is something that will never be forgotten and unfortunately has left an indelible mark on the people who were injured and the families who lost loved ones. Cowardly acts and tragedies like this do not discriminate — not by race, age, creed or color. All of us have been touched in some way.
When the news was first announced of the first victim to perish, it only adds to the horror thatMartin Richard, an athletic eight year old waiting for his Dad to cross the finish line was killed. Adding to the madness, his sister, who enjoys to dance, was also badly injured as well.
What do you do after something like this? What we have thought of below will hopefully bring some comfort to the family and community which will help carry on and help in the future the indelible spirit of these two remarkable children.
We are fortunate enough to carry the New Balance limited edition collection that they have done in honor of the Boston Marathon for the past few years. In our world of retail, these shoes are ones that are creative and take the normal and turn them into something special and coveted. What we would like to do is take that creativity and use it for a noble purpose.
Starting 3PM EST tomorrow, Thursday, April 18 until the end of the day Monday, April 22, we will feature on our website this collection of shoes (available in both men’s 8 thru 15 and women’s sizes 6.5 thru 9.5). Every dollar, down to the last penny from the sale of these shoes, we will donate to the Boys and Girls club of Dorchester, MA – the hometown of Martin and his sister — in his memory and in her honor.
Please understand, this is not anything else other than a labor of love which we hope will benefit and bring comfort to the families of this senseless act.
