Amanda is originally from California, but throughout her twenties she moved multiple times for school and running became her one constant. As a former soccer player, Amanda found running to be the perfect way to stay in shape while exploring each new city she lived in. This will be her seventh or eighth marathon (she’s losing count!), but her first New York City Marathon, which she has long dreamed of running because of the energy, crowds, and overall vibe.
After years of entering the lottery, she decided to research charity partners and trusted that if it was meant to happen, it would. Answer the Call immediately stood out to her. Her father was a 
firefighter in the Sacramento Fire Department, her brother is a police officer, and she and her mom are both nurses, making service a core part of her family. After her father passed away, Amanda saw firsthand how the Sacramento Area Fire Fighters Widows and Orphans Fund supported her family, and Answer the Call’s mission deeply resonated with her.
She understands the importance of finding community in grief through group outings, shared experiences, and annual memorials for families of fallen first responders. Amanda keeps her father’s memory alive by talking about him often, staying in touch with his friends and coworkers, and never missing a chance to tell a dad joke in his honor. When she’s not running, she loves traveling, hiking, and spending time with her dog.
Because she doesn’t listen to music while running, Amanda says this race is 75% mental and 25% physical. Her goal is to enjoy the experience, take in every mile, and not focus on a personal record.
Click here to support Amanda’s fundraising efforts!
We’ll be cheering for you, Amanda! We are honored that you are running on Team Answer the Call!
Answer the Call’s 2026 Summer Intern, Allie Caras, conducted this interview and wrote this blog post.
