Jeanne Bocci of Grosse Pointe Park is a retired teacher and community trailblazer who founded the Belle Isle New Year's Eve Run in 1970. Driven by her passion for fitness and community spirit, she established the event as a way to bring people together to celebrate the end of the new year with health and camaraderie. Her dedication has made the run a cherished tradition in Detroit, embodying her commitment to inspiring others and fostering a sense of connection through shared experiences. In 2020, after 50 years of service, Jeanne hung up her shoes as Race Director and handed the reigns over to Freedom Over Fear, LLC, owned and operated by Stephen Moran who has over 26 years of experience in the running industry.
Expanding the community spirit to local running stores creates an opportunity to strengthen connections and foster collaboration within the running community. By partnering with these stores, we can promote fitness, share resources, and host events that bring runners together. Local stores can serve as hubs for training programs, gear education, and event promotions, enhancing the sense of camaraderie and support. Together, we can build a network that inspires health, wellness, and unity while supporting small businesses that share our passion for movement and community impact.