Shauna-Lee Howe Brings Her Own Positive Energy to NYRR Events

Shauna-Lee Howe is a natural-born volunteer. Having dedicated her life to caring for others as a nanny and an active member of her church community, volunteerism was an obvious next step for her. She took that step in 2014, when she first volunteered with New York Road Runners.

The TCS New York City Marathon was underway, and Shauna-Lee was there with her church group, Advent Youth. She recalls that it was a challenging day that tested her organizational skills and endurance, but by the end of it, she had found a new way to spread her positive energy and make a difference.

“Volunteerism allows you to be part of something bigger than yourself,” says Shauna-Lee. “Not to mention, it’s one of the easiest ways to give back and have a positive impact on people’s lives.”

What really made her see that impact was an interaction she had with a runner at mile 25 of the marathon. The runner had asked the crowd if anyone had any candy. Shauna-Lee offered up some gum, and the runner graciously took it. It was a small moment, but it made her realize how important volunteers are to the runner’s experience—an experience that will be with them for the rest of their lives.

Since the 2014 TCS New York City Marathon, Shauna-Lee has become a superstar NYRR volunteer. She’s brought her reliability, positive energy, and love for races to multiple events over the years.

Always wanting to do more, Shauna-Lee brings as many people as she can to share in the experience of being an NYRR volunteer. She feels it’s important for people to be exposed to new experiences and to be part of something that has a positive influence. “It is difficult to find opportunities that are organized and can accommodate groups, but NYRR events are perfect for that,” she says.

At the 2016 TCS New York City Marathon, Shuana-Lee brought 20 of her friends to volunteer with her.

So, what advice does she have for new volunteers? “Come prepared and ready to volunteer and make a difference,” she says. “Wear your best sneakers and be sure to rest the day before. The energy you bring while volunteering is extremely important. The runners truly ‘light up’ when they see you having a great time. People should know that the energy they bring is extremely important and contagious.”

Celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month! Learn more about volunteering with New York Road Runners.