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Eve’s Fund and our award-winning ThinkFirst Navajo program launched a new annual initiative: sponsorship of the massage tent at this year’s 42nd Shiprock Marathon. We were honored to continue our long-standing support of this important community event. For more than a decade, we’ve proudly contributed to this special weekend, through participation, education, fundraising, and service.
Eve’s Fund has been proud, active participants in the Shiprock Marathon for many years. Our involvement has included running in the 5K, 10K, and half-marathon events, assembling fundraising teams, donating sports helmets to young participants, and volunteering to provide post-race massages to runners.
Thanks to a wonderful team of dedicated volunteers—including staff from the Navajo Nation Office of the President—we provided 201 free post-race massages, each approximately 10 minutes long, over a five-hour period. These massages offered much-needed relief, recovery, and care to runners of all ages.
Runners expressed deep gratitude, often calling the massage tent a “lifesaver.” Many shared that the Shiprock Marathon was among the best—and most fun—they’d ever experienced, thanks in part to the supportive and festive atmosphere fostered by volunteers.
ThinkFirst Navajo Injury Prevention Booth
Alongside the Shiprock Marathon massage tent, Eve’s Fund hosted a ThinkFirst Navajo Injury Prevention booth, continuing our mission to prevent brain and spinal cord injuries among Native youth.
Led by volunteer Ashleigh Bennett, and her son Kollin Lee—both trained injury prevention educators—the booth featured interactive demonstrations using skull and brain models to show the impact of injuries when helmets aren’t worn.
These engaging, visual lessons sparked curiosity and concern, especially among younger Shiprock Marathon participants and families. The hands-on learning experience prompted meaningful conversations about safety and prevention, drawing attendees from across the country.
Educating and Empowering Navajo Youth
The ThinkFirst Navajo Program offers free, culturally based presentations across the Navajo communities. These dynamic sessions are designed to teach injury prevention in schools, camps, and community venues; use interactive tools to increase understanding and retention; and empower Native youth to make smart, safe choices.
If you’re interested in bringing ThinkFirst Navajo to your school, program, or event, please reach out to Helen Pino, Program Liaison, at info@evecrowellsfund.org.
Join Us Next Year!
As the Shiprock Marathon continues to grow, so does the need for volunteers—especially at peak times when runners finish their events. If you’re passionate about community service, wellness, and Native health, we’d love to have you help us next year at the Shiprock Marathon massage tent. It is a lot of work and but great fun and team spirit. Contact us here for more information on how you can help.
Together, we’re building stronger, safer communities—one runner, one lesson, and one meaningful connection at a time.
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