CHARITY ATHLETES:
Join our Bank of America Chicago Marathon Team

Be a Charity Athlete – Do the Distance for Down syndrome

UPS for DownS is a race-designated charity for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon!  If you are already registered for the race, you can join our team by CLICKING HERE.

Each UPS for DownS Charity Athlete agrees to raise at least $500 and will receive:

  • A custom “Charity Athlete” Training shirt;
  • A custom UPS for DownS race shirt;
  • UPS for DownS team runs;
  • Participation in Endurance Team e-group with exchange of advice and recommendations about training and fundraising;
  • The opportunity to be paired with a person with Down syndrome through our Adopt-a-Runner program.
  • Fundraising Incentives, including admission to Hospitality Tent for athletes who raise $1000 by September 15th!
  • Team pasta dinner
  • Personal fundraising web page
  • Charity Block Party on the course for your spectators and fans!
Once you have registered for the Chicago Marathon, sign up for the UPS for DownS Team here:  CLICK TO REGISTER!

For more information on how to be a Charity Athlete for UPS for DownS, contact us at marathon@upsfordowns.org with information about your area of interest (athlete or volunteer or both), your specific event, contact information, including phone and address, and why you are interested in UPS for DownS (neighbor, classmate, brother/niece with Down syndrome, special education teacher, Special Olympics coach, etc).

But, lest running 26.2 miles isn’t enough for you, UPS for DownS’ cadre of Charity Athletes includes ultramarathoners who have redefined their life and their limits, running incomprehensible distances in unfathomable conditions.

Not an athlete?  We are always in need of volunteers at these incredibly fun events. Volunteer activities include cheering on runners, Adopt-a-Runner, passing out water, assisting at team fun runs, helping with the Endurance Team Committee.  We promise that none of these activities require running, swimming or biking insane distances (though hanging around these athlete types might inspire you to put down the donut and go for a walk)!

To find out more and support our 2010 athletes, click here:  Angel Endurance Team

100% of the funds raised by the UPS for Downs Marathon Team fund The Katie MacDonald Down Syndrome Literacy Project.

UPS for DownS Endurance Teams on Facebook
Can I help my Friend?

Yes! Play with and talk to people with Down syndrome. If they are having trouble playing a game, give them time and a little extra help or ask them what game they would like to play. Be clear in what you are saying. Find out what your friend likes to do. Just hang out together and see what happens. You are more alike than you are different.

Do people with Down syndrome grow up?

Yes. In adulthood, many people with Down syndrome have jobs, go to college, live independently, and support their communities. People with Down syndrome bring to their jobs enthusiasm, reliability, and dedication.