Record-Breaking Fundraising at the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon

The 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Sets a New Benchmark for Charity Fundraising

On December 11, 2025, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon revealed an impressive achievement: participants raised a staggering $47.1 million for various charitable causes during the event. This figure represents a remarkable increase of $11 million over the previous year's record, demonstrating the powerful impact and commitment of the running community.

Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski expressed overwhelming pride in the marathon participants, noting, "We are awed by the incredible fundraising put forth by last year’s Bank of America Chicago Marathon charity participants." He highlighted the dual challenges of training for a marathon while actively raising funds for crucial causes, emphasizing the participants' dedication and resilience. Pinkowski continued, "The $47.1 million they raised will make a meaningful difference in the world."

A Thriving Charity Program

Since the inception of its official Charity Program in 2002, the Chicago Marathon has collectively raised over $405 million. Participants commit to supporting an associated cause and vow to fundraise as they prepare for the marathon. Runners are motivated not only by personal ambition but also by the desire to contribute positively to their communities.

For the upcoming 2026 marathon, anticipated excitement continues with more than 200,000 individuals vying for a limited number of entries. Many participants who qualified for direct entry are legacy finishers or competition-focused qualifiers, but interest remains high among those choosing to run for charity. In fact, about a third of the expected 55,000 entrants for 2026 plan to run in support of an official charity.

Inspirational Stories of Impact

Among the participants who made headlines was Jim Preschlack from Lake Forest, IL. After his wife Paula was diagnosed with lung cancer, he dedicated his effort in the marathon to raise funds for lung cancer research, specifically directing support to the American Cancer Society and a research project at Northwestern University. Jim’s determination led him to raise an extraordinary $335,665, making him the top fundraiser in the event's history.

"My amazing wife Paula was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in April 2025," Jim detailed. "She had successful surgery and we utilized our platform in this marathon to raise funds, ensuring that other lung cancer patients could benefit from ongoing research and support."

How to Get Involved

Individuals keen on participating in the 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon can still secure entry via the official Charity Program, which requires aspiring runners to raise a minimum of $2,200. For more information on joining an official charity team or to view the full list of approved organizations, interested individuals can visit chicagomarathon.com/charity.

The marathon, held on October 11, 2026, will celebrate its 48th year, welcoming thousands of participants from across the globe. Runners will traverse a scenic route through 29 vibrant Chicago neighborhoods, cheered on by an expected 1.7 million spectators. The event not only fosters goodwill but also contributes significantly to the local economy, generating over $683 million annually.

For the latest updates, participants are encouraged to visit the event's FAQ section at chicagomarathon.com.

In conclusion, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon continues to strengthen its reputation as a leader in charitable fundraising, inspiring countless individuals to come together for a common cause. With every step, participants not only challenge themselves physically but also make a profound impact on the lives of others.