PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Casey Martel and Clare Luttrell are gearing up to run in the New York City Marathon this weekend. The Providence school teachers have been fundraising for the CMAK Sandy Hook Memorial Foundation, an organization close to their hearts. The foundation honors Chase Michael Anthony Kowalski, a 7-year-old who lost his life during the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. He was an avid runner who finished multiple events and even a triathlon. "I took time and looked through specifically school-related charities and I stumbled upon CMAK. And I have some friends that grew up in Sandy Hook, which also played a factor in applying to them and getting into that foundation," Luttrell said. The foundation raises money to hold family-focused triathlon events, wellness initiatives, summer camps and more. "We weren't in elementary school at the time but they were close to it and I've talked to them about it and they gave me their experience and what they went through in 2012 and so it was very special to them," Luttrell explained. Luttrell ran the NYC Marathon for CMAK last year and is having Martel join her this year. "School is near and dear to my heart and thinking about Chase and keeping his memory alive, that's so important," Martel said. "He was a triathlete and I've done a triathlon before, I hated it and to be like he was, seven, and did something so cool that I struggle with doing myself."  Their students at Achievement First Providence Elementary School have not shied away from cheering them on. Both need to raise a total of $4,500 each, and fundraising continues for another month after the race. You can donate to Martel and Luttrell's fundraising pages online. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW