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 Amanda Younggreen. Amanda is a special education who told us how running for Team SCC helped her connect to her roots and the memory of her father.
“I feel like my whole life has led me to this point.
When I was in middle school, I started volunteering at a summer riding camp for children all over the Chicagoland area with physical and mental disabilities. It gave them opportunities that they may not have otherwise had.
Fast forward to now—I am a special education teacher in Northwest Indiana. I discovered a love for running as a means to connect to myself in times of turmoil. I started off big, running 25ks, half marathons, and eventually timed races where I could space out my miles over 24 hours.
In the last year, I’ve decided to connect back to my volunteering roots. It ultimately allows me to honor my dad; he’s the reason I started all the way back in the 8th grade. He’s been gone for almost 10 years now, but I want to continue giving the chance to experience sports, activities, and other programs for children of all ages and all ability levels.
26.2 miles in memory of Clayton—bringing joy and confidence to anyone at any ability level.”
Thank you so much to Amanda 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: 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.”
Marathon Monday: Sophia Poirier
“I’ve seen how important inclusion, resources, and community support are for individuals and their families, and I’m proud to run for an organization that helps make those opportunities possible.”
