CHARITY ATHLETES!

THE RACE IS SOLD OUT, but you can join our team if you already have an entry.

Be a Charity Athlete – Do the Distance for Down syndrome

UPS for DownS is a race-designated fundraising group for the Rock 'n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon!  

If you already registered for the race at this link (Rock 'n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon), you can join our team for free by CLICKING HERE.  

The suggested fundraising minimum for this race is $975 (this amount has been set by Rock 'n' Roll race owners, NOT UPS for DownS).  You will not be penalized if you do not reach this goal.  You MUST fundraise, however.  

Each UPS for DownS Charity Athlete will receive:

  • A custom “Charity Athlete” Training shirt;
  • Private tent at Start/Finish line with refreshments and private gear check;
  • A custom UPS for DownS race shirt (availability limited for those who join team after 7/1);
  • 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;
  • Team Pasta Dinner; click to register.
  • Personal fundraising web page!
Join our Rock 'n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon 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)!

Funds raised by the UPS for Downs Endurance Team support The Katie MacDonald Down Syndrome Literacy Project.

UPS for DownS Endurance Teams on Facebook
Do people with Down syndrome have feelings?

Yes. Just like everyone, people with Down syndrome have feelings. They can feel happy, silly, sad, sorry, or upset - just like you. People with Down syndrome enjoy friends and family and can be hurt when someone teases or makes fun of them - just like you.

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.