While most newlyweds plan beach getaways or European tours, Karena Cruse and Matt Bennett of Grimes, Iowa, have chosen a dramatically different path for their October honeymoon. The couple will walk 50 miles in 24 hours during the Equalizer ultramarathon on October 25th, transforming their celebration into a fundraiser for Daylight United, an organization combating human trafficking worldwide.
The 50 Mile Honeymoon campaign represents more than an endurance challenge. With online enticement of children increasing over 300% in just two years and millions trapped in modern slavery, the couple sees their unconventional honeymoon as an opportunity to address an urgent global crisis.
“This is our honeymoon, but it’s also our declaration: love should always equal freedom. Every mile we walk is for those who can’t – and every sponsor helps turn suffering into hope,” said Karena Cruse.
Daylight United, the beneficiary of their efforts, works to equip frontline organizations in rescuing victims, supporting survivors, and preventing trafficking. Every dollar raised through the ultramarathon will go directly to these initiatives.
The couple brings significant community organizing experience to their mission. They’ve co-led the Grimes Farmers & Community Market, growing it from 10 to over 50 vendors, establishing themselves as proven community builders. Their athletic backgrounds also prepare them for the physical demands ahead. Cruse has completed half marathons wearing formal gowns to raise awareness about online sexual abuse, while Bennett has supported numerous local community initiatives.
“Most people go on vacation for their honeymoon. We decided to spend ours walking 50 miles, because if our steps can spark change, then the pain in our legs is worth it,” Matt Bennett explained.
To maintain momentum and engagement leading up to the event, the couple has created weekly “RidicuLifts Roulette” training challenges. Donors unlock various quirky, physical, or endurance tasks that Cruse and Bennett complete live, adding an interactive element to their fundraising efforts.
Sponsors have multiple ways to participate in the campaign. They can dedicate one of the 50 miles or one of the 24 hours, with their names displayed on a canopy wall at the event. This personal touch allows supporters to feel directly connected to specific portions of the journey.
The timing of their honeymoon ultramarathon reflects a growing trend of couples using milestone celebrations to support causes they care about. Rather than traditional gift registries or personal indulgences, Cruse and Bennett demonstrate how personal celebrations can become platforms for social change.
Their professional backgrounds add credibility to the endeavor. With experience as a VP of Operations and extensive nonprofit volunteer work, the couple understands both the logistical challenges of organizing such an event and the importance of transparent, effective fundraising.
The Equalizer ultramarathon itself provides the perfect venue for their mission. Known for attracting endurance athletes who push physical and mental boundaries, the event aligns with the couple’s goal of demonstrating that extraordinary efforts can create meaningful impact.
As October 25th approaches, the 50 Mile Honeymoon initiative continues to gain support from the Grimes community and beyond. The campaign illustrates how personal milestones, when reimagined through the lens of service, can inspire others to reconsider their own celebrations and commitments.
For those interested in supporting the cause, sponsorship opportunities remain available through the campaign’s social media channels. Whether dedicating a mile, an hour, or simply spreading awareness, supporters can join Cruse and Bennett in their mission to turn a honeymoon into a movement against human trafficking.
