Running with Purpose: Build-N-Athlete Turns the Steamtown Marathon into a Mission of Love and Legacy

By: Jon Casey | SportzWire | October 17, 2025 | Photo courtesy Build-N-Athlete

Running for a Cause: Build-N-Athlete’s Steamtown Marathon Journey of Heart and Grit

At Build-N-Athlete, our mission is simple yet powerful: to eliminate financial barriers in youth sports and give every child the gear they need to play with confidence. As I, Jon Casey (co-founder of Build-N-Athlete), and my sister Kathleen Casey Anderson took on the Steamtown Marathon this year, we carried that mission forward with every step.

A Race with Deep Dedication

This October’s marathon held special meaning as we ran in memory of our mother, Susan Casey, who passed away from breast cancer 3 years ago. Wearing pink wasn’t just a gesture, it was a tribute to her legacy and a way to raise awareness for all those affected by the disease. It’s the very reason Build-N-Athlete was founded, to honor her memory by helping kids play the sports they love.

Another layer of this year’s run was the heartfelt dedication to Eddie Kaufman, a cherished member of our community who passed away just before the marathon. Anyone who followed his story couldn’t help but be moved by the outpouring of love and the incredible individual he was. His lasting legacy is something that will never be forgotten, and we wore orange, a symbol for leukemia awareness, alongside our pink to honor him and the ones who loved him. #TeamEddieK

Celebrating Grit and Accomplishment

One of the standout moments of the day was Kathleen’s incredible performance. With a powerful sprint finish, she claimed the third overall female spot in a remarkable time of 2:52. It was a true testament to her grit and determination. Kathleen ran with heart and purpose, showing what it means to push through and finish strong for a cause greater than oneself.

As we reflect on this year’s Steamtown Marathon, it’s clear that this race was about so much more than running. It was about honoring those we love, supporting our community, and living out the Build-N-Athlete mission of empowering youth athletes. We’ve seen incredible growth in our organization this past year, not just in fundraising but in the connections we’ve built with local businesses and the community. Every step we take is a step toward a more inclusive world of youth sports.

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