More than a race: Why Understood.org is running the NYCRUNS Brooklyn Experience Half Marathon
March 25, 2026
On April 26, 2026, more than 25,000 runners will fill the streets of Brooklyn. They’ll be chasing personal bests and historic views. This year, the energy will be even more meaningful for us: Understood.org is proud to be an official charity partner for the NYCRUNS Brooklyn Experience Half Marathon.
We’re kicking off our inaugural “Miles for Minds That Think Differently” campaign. The Understood.org team is running to ensure that the 1 in 5 kids who learn and think differently have the specialized support they need to thrive.
The science behind the strides
Why a half marathon? Beyond the community spirit, there’s a proven connection between physical movement and cognitive health. Recent research found that exercise can significantly improve three areas of executive function for people with ADHD:
Cognitive flexibility: The ability to adapt to new information or changing environments
Working memory: The capacity to hold and use information in the short term
Inhibitory control: The ability to stop impulsive responses and resist distractions
By participating in this race, we’re bringing this research to life. Every mile is a reminder that movement can spark clarity. It can build confidence. And it can help people better understand how their brains work.
By donating, you’re helping the 1 in 5 kids who learn and think differently get on a path to thriving
Every mile run and dollar donated helps put people who learn and think differently on a path to thriving.
As our runners take to the streets of New York City, their miles help expand our reach and community. Each step introduces Understood.org to new friends, families, and supporters. That means more people will have the tools they need to succeed.
Meet the Understood runners
Shout out to our amazing runners for bringing our mission out to the race course! We asked our runners:
What’s your favorite “mental fuel” — a mantra, a song, or a thought — that gets you through a tough mile and helps you stay focused?
The "Watch the Throne" album by Jay-Z and Kanye West … as soon as the beat drops on "No Church in the Wild," my brain and body know it’s time for business! - Kemal
I think about the quote "Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional." This keeps me running further! - Chanhee
I tell myself "one more mile" 13.1 times. - Hana
I remind myself that I can do hard things! - Jaimie
For me, it’s always a specific song. I rotate them in and out seasonally, but over the years the most consistent choice has got to be Daft Punk’s "The Grid." Guaranteed to be sprinting by the end of the song. - John
How to support
You don’t have to lace up your sneakers to make an impact. You can support our “Miles for Minds That Think Differently” campaign by donating to our page or by cheering us on along the route on April 26!
