Every Monday we celebrate the runners who have joined Team Special Children’s Charities for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.
This incredible team is using their miles to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Chicago. We are so grateful for their dedication and generosity!
This week’s featured runner
is Katie Poole. Katie told us about how her marathon training has connected her with her father’s memory, and has taught her new lessons about herself:
“I’m running the 2025 Chicago Marathon – a race that carries deep meaning for me.
I’m running in honor of my dad, who passed away but left behind a legacy as a marathoner. He ran Chicago three times, and now I get to follow in his footsteps. I’m also running for my daughter, to show her what it looks like to push through hard things with heart and resilience.
Along the way, running has given me more than just miles – it’s given me a powerful community, a way to process grief, and the power of showing up for something bigger than myself.
That’s why I’m proud to be running with Special Children’s Charities, raising funds to support programs for children and young adults with disabilities.
Every donation, every cheer, and every step counts. Thank you for supporting this journey”
Thank you so much to Katie for being a part of our team! Support her effort by making a donation to her campaign today!
Read more stories from our Team SCC runners!

Marathon Monday: Joe and McKinley
“I think yesterday taught me a life lesson about what really matters: coming together to reach a common goal.”

Marathon Monday: Marian Boyd
“His optimism and general zest for life inspires me every day to wake up be grateful for the life I lead and the abilities I have.”

Marathon Monday: Andrew Lewinski
“Thank you to Special Children’s Charities for all that you do for the community, and thank you again for giving me this amazing opportunity to be part of the Chicago Marathon.”

Marathon Monday: Nathan McDonald
“I look to continue my journey of the world major marathons abroad in years to come while fundraising for charities that I’m passionate about.”

Marathon Monday: Hilari Williams
“I’m often in awe of what my body has accomplished so far, and I hope along the way, my son is learning that we can do hard things, we can overcome obstacles, and we can do it with love and a smile.”

Marathon Monday: Amanda Younggreen
“26.2 miles in memory of Clayton—bringing joy and confidence to anyone at any ability level.”



