Because of Drew Swiss, more than 4,300 kids in New York City have had the opportunity to join free health and fitness programs – something that they otherwise would never have had the opportunity to participate in. A Brooklyn-native, Swiss has raised more than $175,000 as a member of Team For Kids, which provide free or low-cost school- and community-center based health and fitness programs to children who would otherwise have little to no access to regular physical activity.

“Without champions like Drew – champions who are committed, deeply loyal to our cause and advocates of helping those in need – our programs would not have the impact they do today,” said Elizabeth Carr of New York Road Runners.

Swiss raises the funds each year as part of his training program for the ING New York City Marathon, which he has run every year since 2007. He reaches out to his friends, family members and colleagues throughout the year, spreading the message about the importance of teaching kids about health and fitness at a young age.

“I have been running for more than 20 years, and ran my first marathon when I was 30 years old,” said Swiss. “I took a bit of a break when my wife and I started a family and vowed to run another one. On my 50th birthday, I did just that as a member of the Team For Kids team.”

Swiss, who himself had weight issues as a child, is passionate about helping children learn about the importance of health and fitness.

“I just want kids to know that they can achieve anything in life,” said Swiss. “I was one of those kids that grew up a little overweight and didn’t have the same opportunities as other kids. I know what it’s like. It’s important to teach these kids why they need to eat healthy and develop healthy life habits, which is why I am so passionate about Team For Kids.”

Swiss has already signed on to run with Team For Kids at the 2012 ING New York City Marathon. His goal is to raise even more than the $48,000 he raised for the 2011 marathon. Even though the race is 11 months away, Swiss has already received his first donation.

“Drew sets a tremendous example for all of us,” said Carr. “When I think of Drew, the first words that come to mind are passionate and committed. We have no greater cheerleader for our work and our cause.”

In addition to spending his time raising funds for children in need and training for the marathon, Swiss dedicates his professional life to increasing awareness about the importance of health and wellness. He works at the Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, an organization dedicated to helping improve the health of residents in the Bronx, which currently has an obesity rate of 62 percent. Swiss is married with four children, who are already aspiring to become runners – and philanthropists – like their father.

“I am most proud of having the opportunity to set a positive example for my own children,” continued Swiss. “Instead of saying ‘just do as I say,’ I can show them the importance of helping others while achieving your own goals.”