Last July, when Erin Sprague became the youngest woman to run a marathon on all seven continents, she gained more than personal satisfaction from reaching her goal.

Her efforts also made a difference to the local humanitarian initiatives that receive funding from In the Running, the nonprofit organization Sprague co-founded in 2006.

In the Running is dedicated to raising money and awareness for seven grassroots charities—one on each continent—which tackle issues ranging from human trafficking to HIV/AIDS. Setting the marathon record was part of Sprague's mission to garner more attention and funding for these causes.

The 25-year-old, who was recently honored as one of Self magazine's "Women Doing Good," says she relishes the physical challenge of marathons, as well as the opportunity to learn from fellow participants.

"I have literally found inspiration on all seven continents," she explains. "One of the things I love about marathons is that they are composed of different people from different places, running for different reasons toward a common goal."

To date, In the Running has raised more than $75,000 for its partner charities.