For the past 12 years running has been a major passion of mine. I started running in middle school, became more competitive in high school, and was lucky enough to be able to run at the collegiate level for five years. Throughout this time running has given me so many great things- the opportunity to be a part of many supportive teams, has been a mental outlet during stressful times, and has led me to some of my best friends. Because of this I am extremely grateful for the ability to run and would like to give back to help others gain this same experience. 

I am excited to share that I am participating in the 2023 Bank of America Chicago Marathon on behalf of Special Olympics Chicago. The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community. This organization and its event are really important to me, and I’m working hard to support them. 

If you’d like to help me reach my fundraising goal, you can visit my page and make a donation here: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/teamspecialo23/account/1405671/donate/ or Venmo: @audrey2626. All funds raised will benefit the Special Olympics Chicago athletes, covering program costs such as transportation, sports equipment, team uniforms, and food. 

Thank you so much for your support!