Pope Francis Center Partners with Endurance for Change for 200-Mile Run Across Michigan to Support Individuals Experiencing Homelessness

DETROIT, Mich., Feb. 24, 2025 — Pope Francis Center (PFC) is proud to announce a new partnership with Endurance for Change, an inspiring statewide initiative in which ultra-endurance athlete and University of Michigan student Brendan LaFrenier will run 200 miles across Michigan to raise funds and awareness for organizations serving individuals experiencing homelessness.

Through this extraordinary physical feat, LaFrenier aims to shine a light on the realities of homelessness while generating critical support for agencies on the front lines — including the Pope Francis Center, which provides food, access to showers, laundry service, healthcare access, and pathways to permanent housing for Detroiters in need.

“We are honored to partner with Brendan and Endurance for Change,” said Fr. Tim McCabe, SJ, President and CEO of the Pope Francis Center. “Endurance means something very different when you’re experiencing homelessness. It means surviving severe weather conditions and carrying the heavy emotional toll of not knowing what tomorrow will bring or where your next meal will come from. At the Pope Francis Center, our mission is to ensure that no one carries that burden alone.  Brendan’s run is a powerful reminder that as a community, we can go the distance together to bring stability, dignity, and hope to our neighbors in need.”

LaFrenier’s 200-mile, three-day journey begins in Detroit at the Pope Francis Center’s Day Center and will span communities across Michigan, symbolizing the collective effort required to address homelessness and support those seeking stability and hope. Funds raised during the run will directly benefit participating organizations working to provide shelter, services, and long-term housing solutions.

“In Michigan, thousands of people experience homelessness on any given night, yet their stories often go unheard,” said LaFrenier. “This project is about using endurance and storytelling to build empathy, raise visibility, and create tangible impact for shelters doing critical work.”

In a show of solidarity, Fr. Tim will join LaFrenier for a leg of the run on Monday, March 2, underscoring PFC’s commitment to walking — and running — alongside those who advocate for and serve the most vulnerable. 

The partnership comes at a critical time, as service providers across Michigan face increased demand for shelter and support services. Events like Endurance for Change not only generate financial support but also amplify the call for compassionate, community-driven solutions to homelessness.

Community members are invited to follow the journey, cheer runners on along the route, and contribute to the fundraising effort. More details about the route, ways to give, and how to get involved can be found at enduranceforchange.org.