Sunday, October 20th, marked the 14th Columbus Marathon since its partnership with Nationwide Children’s Hospital—a collaboration that has significantly impacted the community of Columbus. Over the years, this partnership has brought more than just runners to the starting line—it has united a city around a shared mission of supporting children’s healthcare. This year’s event brought together 13,500 participants and raised over $1 million for the hospital, pushing the cumulative total to an impressive $14 million since the partnership began in 2012. The funds raised go directly toward supporting critical healthcare services for children and their families, underscoring the power of community and philanthropy.
The Columbus Marathon’s impact resonates deeply with Gervelis Law Firm’s core values. As advocates for justice and well-being, the firm understands the importance of giving back, fostering resilience, and helping individuals and families overcome challenges. The Columbus Marathon exemplifies these principles, bringing people together to support a cause larger than themselves while celebrating personal triumphs. By supporting individuals and families in their time of need, whether through legal representation or community initiatives, Gervelis Law Firm contributes to building a stronger, more connected community.
For Columbus, the marathon is more than just a race. It’s a celebration of resilience, community spirit, and giving back. Each year, thousands of participants—runners, volunteers, and spectators alike—gather in downtown Columbus to transform the city into a vibrant hub of activity. Local businesses, from coffee shops to hotels, see a boost in patronage as participants and their supporters flood the area. The event also inspires civic pride, as residents cheer on runners, line the streets with encouraging signs, and create an electric atmosphere that showcases the best of Columbus.
Among the runners was Senior Associate David Tschantz, who participated in the half marathon with a deeply personal motivation. David joined the race to cheer on his cousin, who achieved an incredible milestone by completing his first full marathon. For David, running isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of life.
As a dedicated member of a local running group in Akron, Ohio, David finds joy and camaraderie in hitting the pavement with like-minded individuals. Beyond his personal runs, he shares his passion by coaching his three kids’ cross-country team, inspiring the next generation of runners. Whether in his hometown or on the road for work, David stays prepared with a trusty pair of running shoes in his car. His routine reflects a broader theme of how the Columbus Marathon inspires people not only to achieve their personal fitness goals but also to connect with the city’s rich network of parks, trails, and recreational spaces. These areas, maintained and celebrated through events like the marathon, become spaces where the community can thrive year-round. No matter where his travels take him—be it Findlay, Columbus, or Youngstown—he knows the best trails to clock a few miles and unwind after a busy day.
David’s commitment to running exemplifies how fitness and philanthropy can intersect, creating meaningful opportunities to give back to the community while pursuing personal goals. Every dollar raised supports the life-saving work of Nationwide Children’s Hospital, which impacts countless families in the region. His participation in the Columbus Marathon reflects not just his dedication to the sport but also his unwavering support for causes that matter most. For participants like David Tschantz and the thousands of others who lace up their running shoes each year, the marathon isn’t just a race—it’s a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together for a cause.