Rebekah Cramer's fundraiser for Vibha Striders

Fundraising for Vibha Striders 2025

Running for a Cause to Empower Futures

When I was seven years old, I fell out of a second-story window, fracturing the majority of my vertebrae on impact. While it’s a miracle that those fractures were the extent of my injury, it was summer—long, sunny days meant for running, playing, and endless adventures. But instead, I was stuck inside, confined to a couch, completely dependent on my mother for everything—even the simplest tasks like getting to the bathroom.

I remember the frustration of feeling stuck in a broken body, longing for the freedom to move, to play, to run. That feeling of helplessness stayed with me and continues to influence how I incorporate movement into daily activities. On the days that I want to skip a run and sleep in or avoid the weather, I lace up my shoes anyway and run for that seven-year-old child inside me—who wanted more than anything to be outside.

What I also remember from that time is how many people were a part of my healing process. My mother who I physically depended on and who advocated for my accommodations in school; my siblings who taught me to be resilient by roasting me (to this day) about falling out a window and subsequently having to carry around an inflatable “hemorrhoid” pillow as a 7 year old; my teachers who adapted to my situation and made sure I remained on track with my academics. I had resources, care, and people in my corner.

That is privilege. And I’ve never stopped thinking about what it meant to have that kind of support—because not everyone does.

Through the Vibha Striders Half Marathon, I’m running to raise funds for children who face limitations—not from injury, but from deeply rooted inequities. These are kids who need systems and communities that see them, support them, and invest in them. 

Vibha empowers grassroots education programs across India—partnering with local organizations to create sustainable, community-driven change. From literacy and math education to health support and learning centers, they meet children where they are, and help build a future where they are the leaders.

I’m not running for these children. I’m running with them in mind, and for a world where all kids receive the support they need to thrive.

This journey is about more than running. It’s about recognizing the systems that helped us—and choosing to extend that same care to others. Together, we can help children access what they’ve always deserved: opportunity, dignity, and the freedom to dream big.

Donate today, and let’s run toward a more equitable future. Because education should be a right, not a privilege. 

If you'd like to join me:

• $50 funds rehabilitation for a child with a learning disability

• $100 provides educational materials for five children

• $200 builds libraries in two villages

• $500 supports immunizations for 15 children

• $1000 helps establish a small education center for 37 children

Many employers match donations—doubling your impact. If yours does, let me know so I can recognize your gift.

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Vibha: Empowering Dreams: 32 Years of Impactful Education | Vibha's Volunteer-Driven Journey

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About Vibha

At Vibha, we believe education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty. Since 1991, we have transformed the lives of 4.8 million children, empowering them through access to quality public education. As a platinum-rated, volunteer-driven nonprofit, Vibha collaborates with grassroots organizations, government agencies, and communities across India and the USA to enhance learning outcomes in government schools, providing equal opportunities for all children.

Our multifaceted approach focuses on addressing specific educational needs, investing in professional development for educators, integrating technology to drive data-informed decisions, and engaging communities to create lasting impact. We partner with stakeholders at every level, ensuring long-term sustainability and meaningful progress.

What sets Vibha apart is its network of highly skilled professionals from various sectors, united by a shared vision of transforming education. Our volunteers, donors, and supporters bring expertise and passion to the mission, making real change possible.

With over $24 million raised and invested in proven educational models, Vibha remains committed to building a brighter future for children. Together, we are not just supporters but partners for change, working towards a more inclusive and prosperous society.

All donations to Vibha are tax deductible. Vibha is a 501(c)(3) organization, registered in the USA in the State of New Jersey. Vibha's Tax ID is 22-3122761.