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 Jonathan Herrera. Jonathan told us about his sister, and how spending his life in the disability community led him to join Team SCC to help support families and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“Hello, I’m Jonathan, but I go by Johnny. I am 32 years old and I started running 1.5 years ago. This is my first marathon and I’m so excited to not to listen to music and just listen to the crowd! I have completed 4 half marathons, 4 10ks, and 2 5ks.
The reason I really wanted Special Children’s Charities to pick me is because of the love I have for anyone with special needs. I grew up with a sister with Down syndrome / Autism, and with that being said, a mother and father to be able to raise 2 children. Parents who always were taking care of my sister’s needs, while also taking me to sports.
Through out my life, I have always been a part of activities and events that are sponsoring children/young adults with special needs. I’ve noticed that throughout the years that the help, guidance, supplies, have only gone up in price for these families of children with special needs, and having these opportunities to raise money for these children and adults is one of the kindest things you can do. These people don’t go asking for money to have all the new equipment, they just want to be heard.
Not everyone gets to live a life with someone with special needs, but the community has grown and adapted so well (at least in California where I’m from) that it makes my heart filled with joy.
I even convinced my sister to do a 6k race at the Balersfield Marathon on 3-22-26!!
Thank you for taking the time to read this. I wish I could say so many stories into this, but at the end of the day, my story ends with a thank you and LETS GO SPECIAL CHILDREN’S CHARITIES!”
Thank you so much to Jonathan for being a part of our team! You can follow his running adventures on TikTok.
Support his effort by making a donation to his campaign today!
Read more stories from our Team SCC runners!
Marathon Monday: Joseph Traskaski
Through out my life, I have always been a part of activities and events that are sponsoring children/young adults with special needs. I’ve noticed that throughout the years that the help, guidance, supplies, have only gone up in price for these families of children with special needs, and having these opportunities to raise money for these children and adults is one of the kindest things you can do.
Marathon Monday: Jonathan Herrera
Through out my life, I have always been a part of activities and events that are sponsoring children/young adults with special needs. I’ve noticed that throughout the years that the help, guidance, supplies, have only gone up in price for these families of children with special needs, and having these opportunities to raise money for these children and adults is one of the kindest things you can do.
Marathon Monday: Katherine Nappi
As a mom of two, this journey is also about showing my kids the power of inclusion, empowerment, and giving back.
Marathon Monday: Susan Hurren
I want to raise money and assist these people in getting to spend time doing what they love to do just like the rest of us.
Marathon Monday: Sam Mermelstein
his organization lives out Mason’s mission every day—uplifting, supporting, and empowering children with special needs. By taking on these 26.2 miles, I feel I am able to give back a small portion of the love Mason gave so freely to the world.
Marathon Monday: Katie Poole
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.
