Run 26.2. Change Lives.
For the third year, Gerry's Cafe is sending a team to the Chicago Marathon to raise money for our employees with intellectual and developmental disabilities and our cafe's sustainability. Here is the link to our official team page.
We are now an official charity partner of the Chicago Marathon.
As of 12/1/25 we do not have any 2026 Chicago Marathon charity entries left. However, if you already have an existing entry to the 2026 Chicago Marathon and would like to fundraise for Gerry's Cafe, we would love to have you join our team.
Be part of the excitement and community while making a difference for those with disabilities. Our 2025 team with 8 runners raised over $22,000.
About Gerry’s Café
Gerry’s Café is a mission-driven coffee shop and catering program that employs and empowers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Based in Arlington Heights, Illinois, we provide paid training, real-world work experience, and community connection — proving that inclusive employment is good for people and good for business.
Your miles make a difference. Every dollar raised by Team Gerry’s supports our workforce mission — from barista training to food-service certifications to community outreach.
Impact Highlights
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30+ team members with IDD trained and employed
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$20,000 + 2025 team fundraising goal
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Proceeds support jobs, training, and inclusion
