For the third year in a row, high school cross-country star Collin Maher has partnered with Shoes That Fit to provide sneakers for kids in Fulton County, Georgia. The annual Cocoa Classic is a 5k fun run that is open to all ages and abilities. The run is a family affair, organized by Collin and his brother Brennan. This year’s festivities took place February 22nd at The Mount Vernon School in Sandy Springs, GA. As an accomplished track runner, Maher wanted his fundraising efforts to encourage running and exercise for kids.
Maher organized the first 5k road race as an Eagle Scout project for the Boy Scouts of America. In 2023, the proceeds from the first fun run provided 650 kids at Lake Forest Elementary School with brand-new shoes. In 2024, 450 kids at Ison Springs Elementary School were helped. This year’s fun run raised $20,000 (after expenses) to purchase a brand-new pair of shoes for every student at Lake Forest Elementary School!
Collin is currently in his senior year of high school. After graduation, he plans to continue running at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, as a member of the university’s track team. His brother Brennan, who is a junior in high school, will take over the reins of the Cocoa Classic next year.
Thank you, Collin, the Maher family, the runners, and everyone involved! Your continued dedication to community and helping kids stay active is making a huge impact! We are cheering you on. Keep up the “shoe–riffic” work by continuing to put smiles on children’s faces, one shoe at a time.
