Running with Heart: The Laneski Sisters' Marathon Journey

For Leah and Elyse Laneski, Allied Services isn’t just a name, it’s a thread that has been woven through the fabric of their family for generations. Their grandmother dedicated more than 20 years of service to the organization, and their beloved Uncle Bobby, a man with intellectual disabilities, has spent a lifetime as both an employee and now a resident at Allied. This November, Leah and Elyse will lace up their running shoes and take on one of the most prestigious races in the world - the TCS New York City Marathon - all in honor of the man who is inspiring their journey.
 

From Family Roots to Finish Lines
 

The decision to run a marathon wasn’t made lightly. “I remember thinking, ‘Wow, a marathon; that’s insane,’” Elyse recalled with a laugh. “But then I caught the running bug.” As her mileage increased and conversations with coworkers turned toward marathons, the dream began to take root.
 

The idea became more tangible when Elyse learned a colleague had run the NYC Marathon with Team Allied Services & You, the official charity team of Allied Services. It was a lightbulb moment. She and Leah, who had always shared a competitive and supportive sisterly bond, began to imagine what it might look like to take on this challenge together, and for a cause that felt personal.
 

The NYC Marathon: Not Just a Race, But a Privilege
 

The TCS New York City Marathon is known worldwide not just for its energy and prestige, but also for its exclusivity. With only a fraction of hopefuls selected through a lottery system, many runners secure their spots by choosing to run for charity, a path that perfectly aligned with the Laneski sisters’ motivations.
 

“There was no doubt who we’d want to run for,” said Leah. “Allied Services has given so much to our family, especially Uncle Bobby. This is our chance to give back in a meaningful way.”

Running for Uncle Bobby - and So Much More
 

Uncle Bobby has worked in the Vocational Services Division at Allied Services for over 40 years, and as a resident, he continues to find purpose and joy in the community that has supported him throughout his life. “He’s our family’s heart,” Leah said. “A gentle giant who’s endlessly proud of his job and of us. Knowing we’re doing this for him - it means everything.”
 

Elyse echoed her sister’s sentiment: “He talks about his work all the time. His identity is so closely tied to Allied. Being able to honor him by representing the organization he loves, that’s incredibly special.”
 

Training, Fundraising, and Finding Purpose
 

Joining Team Allied wasn’t just about getting a spot in the marathon, it came with a commitment to fundraising. “It felt a little intimidating at first,” Leah admitted, “but now it feels right. We’re not just running for ourselves, we’re running for those who can’t.”
 

The sisters are channeling their energy into training and community engagement. They’ve already begun planning events to raise money and awareness. “It’s been amazing to see how many people want to support us,” Elyse said. “And now we’re thinking - how far can we exceed our fundraising goal?”
 

The Road Ahead
 

Their marathon dreams don’t stop at the five boroughs of New York. “We’re already dreaming about other races,” said Elyse. “Chicago, Boston - maybe an international one. Or even a National Park run. Running has become such a joyful part of our lives.”
 

But no matter where their running shoes take them next, one thing is certain: they’ll do it together. “Getting to share this experience with my sister makes it even more meaningful,” said Leah. “And knowing our uncle will be telling everyone that his nieces are running for Team Allied - well, that’s the finish line I’m most excited for.”
 

Giving Back, One Step at a Time
 

For Leah and Elyse, this journey isn’t just about a medal or a finish time - it’s about honoring their family, celebrating their roots, and giving back to a community that’s helped shape their lives. As they continue to train and fundraise in the months leading up to November, they’re running with more than just determination. They’re running with heart.

Support Elyse here: https://fundraisers.nyrr.org/elyse-laneski
Support Leah here: https://fundraisers.nyrr.org/leah-laneski