My connection to Special Olympics and the Disability Community runs deep and lifelong. From a young age, I volunteered to support adaptive sports, coached Special Olympics Track and Field, was president and board member of Best Buddies, at both high school and collegiate levels, and currently practice as a pediatric Occupational Therapist. Serving as an ally and advocate for disability acceptance and inclusion has been a personal mission driving each major decision in my life.

It is an honor to run the Chicago Marathon in October 2024 for Special Olympics/Special Chilldren's Charities to raise funding for their integral programs that serve youth and adults with disabilities worldwide.  I strongly believe that participation in life's activities is the cornerstone to development and happiness, and aim to improve others' lives by making these opportunities more accessible. 

Your donation, spreading the word, connections, and love from near and far will help to fuel my mission to ensure that ALL people can access meaningful sports, activities, team building, and wellness opportunities in their communities.  

You can follow my happenings, training, and silly endeavors related to life and running on Instagram: @andreaxexplores 

Thank you for being here! I love you!

Andrea Rose

If you wish to make a donation you can click the "Donate Now" link below.  You can also send via check, but please send to the address below to credit the donation to my fundraising page. Please make sure to include my name (or the person you would like to support) in the memo section to ensure it is going to my Fundraising Efforts.

Please make all checks payable to Special Children's Charities (with Andrea Gurga in the memo line).

Mail to: 
Special Children's Charities 
2 E. 8th St., Suite 2M
Chicago, IL 60605

Again, thank you for supporting the thousands of participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Chicago!