Strides for Sawyer
A community-led fundraiser supporting Maddy Boyd, Bryce Meyer and Elena Lancioni as they run the 2026 Detroit Free Press Marathon.
For Maddy Boyd, running has always been part of life. This October, she'll take on the 49th Detroit Free Press Marathon with her fiancé Bryce Meyer and close friend Elena Lancioni by her side.
Together, they'll carry the memory of Maddy's brother, Sawyer, all 26.2 miles while raising $10,000 in support of the community work his story inspires.
Who Is Maddy Boyd?
A Northeast Michigan native and Central Michigan University cross-country + track athlete, Maddy Boyd has been a runner as long as anyone can remember.
As she prepared for October's race, she saw an opportunity to connect her experience a deeply personal cause: the loss of her brother to suicide.
Remembering Sawyer
Sawyer Boyd was an exceptional young person whose kindness, joy, and passion for creativity left a lasting impact on everyone in his community.
Tragically, Sawyer took his own life in the fall of 2016.
His loss inspired the creation of The Sunset Project, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to ensuring his legacy continues to create hope, opportunity, and lasting change for others across Northeast Michigan.
Ten years since Sawyer's passing, Maddy, Bryce, and Elena honor his memory while raising funds to support programs and projects that reflect his creativity, his connection to Northeast Michigan, and his enduring legacy.
help us reach $10,000
Every mile Maddy, Bryce, and Elena run is a tribute to Sawyer, and every donation ensures his story continues to create opportunities that empower young people and help build a stronger, more resilient community.
Your donation directly supports The Sunset Project's three core programs:
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The Northeast Michigan Wellness Initiative (NEMWI), expanding mental health education, awareness, and access to resources throughout the region.
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The Sawyer J. Boyd Creatives Grant, empowering emerging artists and creatives through funding and mentorship.
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FOCUS45, supporting culturally enriching projects and placemaking initiatives that strengthen communities across Northeast Michigan.
Meet the team
Maddy Boyd
Sawyer's sister, addictions therapist, paint-by-numbers enthusiast, and proud cat mom to Bean and Queso
Bryce Meyer
Maddy's fiancé, Colorado native, avid sailor, and proud dog dad to Bingley, the German Shorthaired Pointer
Elena Lancioni
Maddy's close friend, Bowling Green + Indiana State alumni, and proud cat mom to Luna
What is The Sunset Project?
Founded in 2021, the Sunset Project is a people-centric community development organization committed to creating a healthier, more vibrant, and better-connected Northeast Michigan.
The organization embodies Sawyer's personal creativity and love for the region through its three unique programs that invest in creative individuals, community spaces, and mental health awareness initiatives.