chicago marathon

Chicago, IL

Opportunity/Challenge

Bank of America’s Charity Partner Program is a lucrative program for non-profits.

Runners commit to a minimum fundraising amount and in turn are guaranteed a spot in that year’s Chicago Marathon.

Approved charities are offered a small number of bibs to fill. If successful in filling those slots prior to the marathon lottery, charities are then given additional post-lottery bibs and the chance to increase their team number in ensuing years.

vendors & Sponsors

Singlets: Day One Promotions

Drawstring Bags: 4Imprint

Response/Solution

Once accepted as a Charity partner, a cadence of team events was curated in order to attract potential runners and build community.

These events included: behind-the-scenes shelter tours; free admission to select events; traditional pasta dinner; wildlife release experience.

Outcome/Results

2022: Accepted from hundreds of other charities to participate in Bank of America’s 2023 Charity Partner Program.
2023: Inaugural marathon team of 5 runners raised $10,000.
2024: Marathon team of 20 runners with a minimum fundraising commitment of $1,750 raised $40,000.
2025: Marathon team of 25 runners projected to raise $62,500.