Hi everyone!

My name is Tyler Parks, and I am a freshman at Syracuse University. On July 9th, 2022, my cousin, Josh, passed away following a sudden heart attack. Josh was born with a physical and intellectual disability, but this did not stop him from leading an extraordinary life. Learning to live and travel on his own, he worked for years at an established law firm in New York City. He walked some 14 miles daily (many of which involved one of his favorite pastimes, walking dogs), raised thousands for charity, and, most importantly, was a beacon to all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Since Josh's passing, I have looked in all aspects of my life for ways to honor his life and his impact on me, and I believe that running the Chicago marathon, and in the process, representing an organization so closely related to his story is the perfect way to do it. This is where Special Children's Charities stepped in. 

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

Special Children's Charities has given me a chance to honor Josh in a meaningful and positive way, and for that, I am forever grateful.

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