For the last few years, our CEO Mike Zervos has ‘Raced Against Racism’. running a marathon and raising funds for Courage to Care. Well… he’s back and ready to run again in 2025!
Liek so many of us, Mike feels strongly that the rise in incidents of racism, particularly antisemitism and hate speak across our community is unacceptable. Mike’s ‘Race against Racism’ is not only to raise much needed funds for Courage to Care, but as importantly to challenge us all to consider what we can do as Upstanders.
Every year our wonderful community has gotten behind Mike and donated so that we can deliver Upstander Programs to students across Victoria, educating on the dangers of racism, discrimination and prejudice.
On Sunday 12 October 2025, Mike yet again plans to run the 42.195km Melbourne Marathon. This is Melbourne’s iconic event finishing with a lap on the hallowed turf of the MCG.
In Mike’s words, “I have seen the streets of Melbourne closed for hate filled protests, this time they will be closed for thousands of runners all with a common goal to test themselves and finish this gruelling event. High fives and cheering spectators will replace racist chants.
I don’t speak for other runners but on Sunday 12 October, reclaiming the streets of Melbourne for decency and caring is how I will be an Upstander. ”
Get behind Marathon Mike
The need for our Upstander Programs is greater than ever before, and this is reflected in the unprecedented demand we are seeing from schools.
Thanks to our wonderful and dedicated volunteers who are out in schools every day, we are educating and empowering students to be Upstanders against racism and discrimination in their schools and communities.
All donations will ensure we can deliver Upstander Programs to schools across Victoria FREE of charge.
Donate today so we can create a generation of Upstanders – and make racism and discrimination a thing of the past.