At the age of six, Dina Vargo celebrated the U.S. Bicentennial by dressing up as Betsy Ross, the maker of the nation’s first flag. From that point on, she was hooked on American history, specifically Boston history.
So it is only fitting that this author and volunteer for Boston By Foot – a nonprofit committed to promoting Boston’s history – is taking her feet to the streets to run the Boston Marathon as a member of Team Metro Housing. Dina will be joining four other members of the team on April 15 when they run the 123rd edition of the historic race. Team Metro Housing has had runners compete and raise funds as part of the John Hancock Non-Profit Program since 2006. These thirteen teams of volunteer runners have raised a combined $431,000 to prevent families and individuals throughout Greater Boston from becoming homeless and help households to transition from homelessness to stability.
Dina’s passion for history led her to author two books on the subject – Hidden History of Boston and Wild Women of Boston. She sees a connection between her writing and running. “I am very proud of both of my books and I think they speak to my commitment and ability to finish big projects –like running a marathon and taking on a fundraising mission,” said Dina.
Though Dina has run six marathons previously, this is her first time tackling Boston and its hilly course.
“Running for Metro Housing is the perfect marriage of mission, passion, and commitment for me. It is an organization I can really get behind since I work in the affordable housing field. I hold its mission dear to my heart. ”
When not giving tours of historic Boston sites and training for the marathon, Dina works full-time as an Asset Manager at Boston Financial Investment Management. Her training has been going well (thanks, weather forecasters!) and Dina feels strong and confident as she gets closer to April.
“What excites me the most is thinking about all of my friends and family who are going to be along the route cheering me on. Their support and donations mean the world to me!”
To help Dina reach her fundraising goal, please make a donation at http://bit.ly/dinaruns.