Why I'm running for #TeamSCC

Since 1969, Special Children’s Charities has been the driving force behind inclusion and empowerment for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Chicago. 

Special Children’s Charities aims to transcend boundaries and redefine possibilities by serving as a symbol of empowerment and inclusivity within both the disability community and the City of Chicago.

The spirit of accomplishment, inclusion, and joy that are part of the marathon experience are what we strive to provide for thousands of our participants in all 77 Chicago neighborhoods. With your help, we are creating a more inclusive Chicago–one mile at a time.

If you wish to make a donation via check, please send to the address below and they will 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.

Please make all checks payable to Special Children's Charities.

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!

Iris’s Personal Fundraising Page

I am thrilled to announce that I will be running the 2025 Chicago Marathon with a charity bib in support of Special Children’s Charities! For as long as I can remember, health and fitness have been a huge part of my identity, my brand, and my lifestyle. It has shown me what I am capable of and has helped me accomplish goals I once thought were impossible. This year, I wanted to take that passion a step further—not just by setting a personal challenge, but by giving back to the community in a meaningful way. Special Children’s Charities funds programs that provide children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to stay active, build confidence, and be part of something bigger through the Chicago Park District’s Special Olympics programs. Donating to my marathon fundraiser will not only support me on race day, but it will also help these incredible athletes experience the joy and empowerment of fitness—just like I did when I was younger. Running track and field was a huge catalyst for my love of health and fitness, and I want to help others have that same opportunity. If you’d like to support my journey, please consider donating, sharing, or simply cheering me on as I train for 26.2 miles! Every contribution makes a difference, and together, we can create more opportunities for those who need it most.

$2,105.81

achieved

$2,100.00

goal

of your goal reached

My Supporters

  • steve simmons SouthLoop 10:30's - You got this!!!! September 2025 $26.25
  • Anna Burton September 2025 $26.25
  • Julie Wisniewski September 2025
  • Grace Van Orman Will be screaming my little heart out for you September 2025 $52.50
  • Cat Jewers Proud of you!!!! <333 September 2025 $26.25
  • Ashley Martinelli You got this, duh you’re a Pegeron. June 2025 $100.00
  • nohemy delatorre March 2025 $100.00
  • Mary Jewers I'll be cheering you and Will on of course. Activate TACO POWER lol March 2025 $78.75
  • Andre Warren April 2025 $68.25
  • Grace Van Orman Will be screaming my little heart out for you September 2025 $52.50