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 Marathon Monday featured runner is Elizabeth Jackoboice. Elizabeth is running her second race with #TeamSCC, and we are so thrilled to have her on our team. She told us what brought her back for another year and another 26.2 miles:

“Running the 2024 Chicago Marathon with Special Children’s Charities was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I joined the team, I felt surrounded by support, encouragement, and a shared sense of purpose. The energy on race day was electric, but what made it truly special was knowing that every mile I ran was helping to make a difference in the lives of the people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The entire journey — from training to crossing the finish line — was filled with meaning, connection, and a lot of joy.

That experience brought me back for 2025 without hesitation. The team at Special Children’s Charities made me feel like part of something bigger, and their constant guidance and positivity helped me stay motivated every step of the way. I’m so excited to run with them again this year and continue supporting a cause that’s close to my heart. Here’s to another incredible year of running for something that truly matters!”

Thank you so much to Elizabeth for being a part of our team once again! Support her effort by making a donation to her campaign today!

Read more stories from our Team SCC runners!

Marathon Monday: Hayley Lawson

So when I run Chicago, I’m not just running for myself. I’m running to support a mission that creates inclusion, builds confidence, and empowers people to live full, meaningful lives.

Read More »

Marathon Monday: Neil Morrison

I am excited to be able to raise money for a cause that is close to my heart and to have more of an impact helping both children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities be able to participate in athletic, enrichment, and educational programs so they can live their best lives too.

Read More »

Marathon Monday: Sarah Hruska

I’m running so more kids like Sam get the chance to feel accepted—to be seen for who they are, not pushed aside for what they struggle with. I’m running so families don’t have to fight so hard just to find a place where their child belongs.

Read More »

Marathon Monday: Talia Skollar

That’s why being part of Team Special Children’s Charities means so much to me—it’s a way to pair something I enjoy with a cause that’s personal, and to be part of something that truly makes an impact.

Read More »

Marathon Monday: Maria Mergal

Having people in my life with different abilities, I’ve seen firsthand how much it matters for everyone to have the resources and space to thrive. That’s exactly what this organization provides and it’s why this one feels personal.

Read More »

Giving Tuesday is today!

Special Children’s Charities provides free, year-round programs for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across all 77 Chicago neighborhoods. Nearly 70% of participants live below the poverty line, so removing financial barriers is essential to ensuring access, inclusion, and joy.

Give to Special Children’s Charities this Giving Tuesday and help us meet our fundraising goal of $10,000!