UPDATE — On Sunday, November 9, Jalen Snipes officially surpassed his $5,000 fundraising goal in support of the North Carolina Firefighters Fund. Thanks to the incredible generosity of donors and The Coley Group’s matching pledge more than $10,000 will directly benefit firefighters and their families across North Carolina. On Friday, November 14, Jalen will set out from Raleigh Fire Department Station #1 at 8:00 AM on his 150-mile Running for Heroes journey to Charlotte. Supporters are encouraged to follow his progress and continue spreading the word to keep the momentum strong.

Best of Raleigh | Special Feature | Powered by The Coley Group

This edition of Best of Raleigh isn’t about showcasing homes, reviewing new restaurants, or spotlighting local businesses. It’s about something deeper, a story of resilience, gratitude, and community strength.

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Jalen Snipes, a trusted real estate advisor at The Coley Group, is undertaking a remarkable journey: running 150 miles from Downtown Raleigh to Uptown Charlotte. His goal? Raise funds and awareness for the North Carolina Firefighter Fund, an organization that supports our state’s most courageous first responders.

This isn’t a race. It’s a mission. One fueled by purpose, inspired by gratitude, and powered by every step forward.

From Tragedy to Tribute: Why Jalen Is Running Across North Carolina

Jalen’s motivation is rooted in personal history. As a child, a lightning strike nearly destroyed his family’s home. It was North Carolina firefighters who risked everything to save it. That act of bravery left a lasting impact, and now, years later, Jalen is running to honor them.

Now a long-distance runner and former weightlifter, Jalen is used to pushing boundaries. But this time, it’s more than a physical challenge, it’s a personal tribute to those who dedicate their lives to protecting ours.

150 Miles of Purpose: Connecting Communities Through Every Step

Starting November 14, Jalen will embark on a three-day ultra-distance run across North Carolina, averaging 50 miles per day. His route, from Raleigh to Charlotte, symbolizes the unity of North Carolina communities rallying behind a common cause.

The Mission: Raise $5,000 for the North Carolina Firefighter Fund
The Impact: Every donation will be matched by The Coley Group, doubling contributions up to $5,000

“If they have the courage to run into a burning building,” Jalen shares, “I can put my feet on the pavement. This run is the least I can do to give back.”

Why the North Carolina Firefighter Fund Deserves Our Support

Firefighters put their lives on the line daily, yet when tragedy strikes, insurance alone often falls short. That’s where the North Carolina Firefighter Fund steps in, providing critical financial support when it's needed most.

This fund helps cover:

• Emergency medical expenses
• Recovery costs not covered by insurance
• Support for families of fallen firefighters

It ensures no firefighter is left behind, and Jalen’s mission brings much-needed visibility to this cause.

How You Can Be Part of This Journey

This isn’t just Jalen’s run, it’s a powerful call for the Raleigh community and beyond to come together. Whether you're an athlete, a local resident, or someone moved by the story, there are multiple ways to support:

Donate via JustGiving → https://bit.ly/4h0lGIw 
Follow Jalen’s journey on Instagram: @jalensnipes
Share the story on social media to raise awareness

Every dollar counts, and with The Coley Group’s matching contribution, your support goes twice as far.

Because This Is What Raleigh’s Best Looks Like

At The Coley Group, we’re more than real estate advisors, we are community champions. Jalen’s run is a reminder that the best stories in Raleigh aren’t just told, they’re lived, one courageous step at a time.

Catch more inspiring stories on The Best of Raleigh Podcast, available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.