Cecilia Tou

Cecilia Tou / Running for Hope for San Diego

Hi, I’m Cecilia Tou. I am a Marathon Mom Running for a Cause! In June, I’ll be running the San Diego Half Marathon, followed by the Sydney Full Marathon in August—both for causes that have deeply opened my eyes to the needs in our city and neighborhoods. I’ve joined the inaugural Hope for San Diego Running Team to support efforts in the fight against human trafficking, homelessness, foster care support, at-risk youth, and refugee assistance in San Diego. This journey will be both physically and mentally challenging, but I’m excited to run with purpose. I’d love your support as I take on this mission and challenge 2025!

  • $1,650

    Raised

  • $1,600

    Goal

  • 26

    Supporters

  • 128

    Days Remaining

Recent Transactions

About Cecilia Tou

Hi Friends and Family, 

I hope you are safe and well!

This year, I’m running the San Diego Half in June and Sydney Full Marathon in August for causes that opened my eyes to urgent needs in our communities.   I’d love to share my journey with you.  

How It All Started  
I kicked off 2025 with zero plans to run any big races. But on a whim, I entered the Sydney Australia Marathon registration lottery, assuming I wouldn’t get in… and then, I GOT IN! At the same time, I joined the inaugural Hope for San Diego Running Team to run the San Diego Half Marathon.

So here I am—training for my 12th marathon while in my mid-40s, braving the San Diego summer heat, all while shuttling my kids to their endless activities. Crazy? Maybe. But these causes are absolutely worth it.

Why I'm Running
Like many of us, I’ve often felt overwhelmed by the challenges facing our city—human trafficking, homelessness, foster care struggles, at-risk youth, and refugee assistance. It’s easy to turn a blind eye, but the needs are real.

Through these races, I’m raising funds to support Hope for San Diego, a trusted organization that provides financial, church engagement, and volunteer resources to vetted local nonprofits tackling these urgent issues. This journey will be both physically and mentally demanding, but I’m excited to run for these deep causes.

My Request To You
First and foremost, I’d love your prayers and encouragement—for strength, safety, balance between family and training, and the perseverance to cross both finish lines.

Secondly, if you feel led, I’d be incredibly grateful for any donation toward this cause. Every contribution makes a difference toward my goal of $1600! 

Click above to donate

Thank you for your support—whether through prayers, donations, or simply cheering me on. Together, we can make a real impact and help protect the most vulnerable in our communities.

With gratitude,
Cecilia