Director of Development of prominent state nonprofit participating in the Empire State Building’s annual Run-Up event

Steven Clayton is not new to racing. To date, he has run six marathons, over 175 races overall, and participated in the Empire State Building’s 2016 Run-Up event. Now, he is back for the 2022 event and dedicating all funds raised to statewide nonprofit Advocates for Children of New Jersey (ACNJ), ensuring every child has a chance to grow up safe, healthy and educated.

The Empire State Building’s annual Run-Up, the world’s first and most famous tower race, challenges a small group of participants from around the world to climb 86 stories – or 1,576 stairs – to reach the building’s Observatory. Steve uses these events as opportunities to inspire others and encourage the dedication of resources to those in need.

“Most of my professional life has been spent supporting the needs of children,” says Clayton. “At my current job as director of development for ACNJ, I have the opportunity to witness the life-transformative changes that advocates can make in the lives of children. That’s why I want to support their work in creating change at the policy level.”

Clayton has a goal of reaching 86 supporters before the race on Thursday, October 6th at 8PM. Interested donors can visit his fundraising page (https://acnj.salsalabs.org/StevesRacingtotheTopoftheEmpireStateforKids/index.html) to make a tax-deductible gift.

After this event? Clayton is jetting off to Chicago to participate in the 2022 Bank of America Chicago Marathon on October 9th.

“What can I say? I’m a glutton for punishment,” laughs Clayton. “I am just happy for the encouragement I have received, and for the support I have received from my donors.”

Advocates for Children of New Jersey is the trusted, independent voice putting children’s needs first for more than 40 years. Their work results in better laws and policies, more effective funding and stronger services for children and families. For more information, visit www.acnj.org.

Follow ACNJ on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/acnjforkids, on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/acnjforkids, on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/acnjforkids/, and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/advocates-for-children-of-new-jersey.