State Farm employee Vy Webster defied the odds as her name was drawn as one of two dozen State Farm sweepstakes winners out of 1,300 entrants to represent the company at the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend in January. To Vy, running and endurance sports are a true passion, and she finds it therapeutic to be challenged and put in the hard work to come out victorious. But in 2016, Vy faced her biggest obstacle yet - a cancer diagnosis.

“If racing and cancer have taught me anything, it's that your mind and body are incredibly capable of more than you can imagine. Running in the half marathon felt like a truly magical escape from the day-to-day management and stress of my ongoing health issues over the past few years,” said Vy. “It's also an important reminder of the health that I do have to help me run 13.1 miles as well as the great support system I have in my family and State Farm.”

This year will mark the 30th Anniversary of the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, which for the first time, was presented by State Farm. More than 100,000 runners and spectators were part of the events.

One of those runners was Joshua Zilm, who has been working at State Farm for eight years and has been participating in endurance events for more than a decade. This was his first year competing in the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend and he completed the grueling Dopey Challenge - four races in four days, including a 5k, 10k, half marathon and full marathon.

“Fitness has been a key part of my life and attending an event like this brings a unique energy that is second to none and a welcome change to my daily solo routine in Illinois,” said Joshua. “People love Disney and people love running! When you mix the two, you create a powerful environment that brings together so many people from all walks of life - it’s nothing short of magical.”

Tracy Schaaf, a State Farm employee and a Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend veteran, has made the trek to Florida every year since 2018. Now she trains and runs in memory of her mother, a retired State Farm Underwriter, who unexpectedly passed away in 2019.

“The runDisney community is amazing. They are like a second family to me. Life has changed a lot since I started running in 2018. I’ve been able to focus on my running goals, while grieving and healing from the loss of my mom,” said Tracy. “Nothing keeps me more motivated than running down Main Street USA and crossing the finish line with a shiny, new medal!”

And even those who are not employees of State Farm represented the company in a big way. A community of runners who’ve nicknamed themselves the “Running Buddies”, were excited to hear that State Farm was the presenting sponsor of this year’s event. One of their members contacted her local State Farm agent, Tom Clarke from East Greenbush, NY, who donated red branded t-shirts. Many of them also wore khaki shorts to complete the full State Farm effect.

“It’s always good to get the brand out there and support a great cause,” said Tom.

While on the surface it appears light-hearted and fun to race at Walt Disney World Resort, many participants run for more significant meaning. Whether it’s physical health, mental health, or community, it is amazing to see these good neighbors come together to accomplish their goals and have a magical time!

 These words, shared by State Farm executives Sonya Robinson and Christopher Gude, rang loud and proud at the 15^th annual Disney Dreamers Academy (DDA).

 The four-day program, held at the Walt Disney World^® Resort annually in March, nurtures the career aspirations of teens from across the country, particularly Black/African-American students and those in underrepresented communities, by encouraging them to DREAM BIG.

Like a Good Neighbor

Following the news of a multi-year strategic alliance with Disney, Sonya and Christopher were honored to represent State Farm at the Academy. The former State Farm agents now oversee business development and growth in western states.

 “Getting a chance to spend time with the students and share my story … I was in their shoes 30 years ago,” Christopher said. “I want them to know they have what it takes to succeed.”

 During a workshop dedicated to helping Dreamers thrive, the pair got personal, shedding light on their modest upbringings in rural communities where opportunities were limited.

 “Being an African-American child in the South was not easy and I often faced racial adversity and exclusion,” Sonya explained. “I didn’t let that stop me. Through education, work ethic and the strength of those before me, I overcame obstacles.”

 “Challenges are part of the journey,” Christopher said. “It’s how you respond that determines your success.”

The Pursuit of Purpose

Sonya and Christopher’s testimonies resonated with teens and adults. During DDA, the duo shared words of wisdom at networking events, workshops, and an exclusive ‘Neighborhood DA Jam’ party sponsored by State Farm.

 “Having the opportunity to learn from such dynamic people is incredible,” said 16-year-old Dreamer from Jacksonville, FL, Christianna Alexander. “I’m inspired.”

 During an entrepreneurship dinner, Christianna, who is also a published author, shared her aspirations with Sonya and Christopher.

 “They encouraged me to keep reaching for the stars,” she said. “Their experiences affirm I’m on the right path. I’m going to keep working hard while lifting others up, too.”

 Disney Dreamer alum Matthew Young (2014) echoed Christianna’s sentiments.

 “This academy surrounds you with people who are dedicated to pulling out the best in you. Through this process I have learned, grown and realized new possibilities,” Matthew said.

 On the final day of the academy – graduation – students received a ring. The gift symbolizes where they’ve been, what’s to come and the joy derived from relentlessly pursuing your passion.

 “Always remember to believe in yourself, support one another, and encourage each other’s destinies,” said Sonya.

About the alliance:

State Farm and Disney are committed to giving back to communities, spreading joy and creating unforgettable memories. Consumers will see the alliance come to life in ways such as Good Neighbor Month celebrations (September), the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend (January 2023), Disney podcast sponsorships and more. State Farm will also sponsor two venues located at Walt Disney World® Resort: State Farm Waterview Park at Disney Springs and State Farm Field House at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.