My name is Carrie Elizabeth Christoff. I am a mom, wife, leader, and optimist. In a world that can feel like too much sometimes, I still believe it’s the choices we make every day that matter most. We may not control what’s happening around us, but we can choose how we show up. And try to do some good along the way.

I turn 50 on October 11, 2026. I hadn’t thought much about how I wanted to celebrate it. Then, I came across a chance to do something difficult for me, with the hope it will do something good for others. For my birthday, I will run the Chicago Marathon as a member of Team Special Children’s Charities.

Since 1969, Special Children’s Charities has been a driving force behind inclusion and empowerment for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the Chicago area. They create access, community, and belonging through sports, arts, and other engagement activites, where opportunities don’t always exist.

I’m looking for 50 people willing to give $100 or 1,000 people willing to give $5 or anything in between. Donate a little or a lot. It doesn’t matter. Just give.  And if you can’t donate, please share this message with someone who can. Like running a race, doesn’t matter how we get there. Only that we do.

Because in a world that feels like a lot sometimes, this is something we can do. Together.

Sincerely,

Carrie

Follow along at https://www.instagram.com/run26.2at50/

Note: 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 include my name (Carrie Christoff) 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