“This race was designed for people like me.”

That’s how Maureen Reid, a proud Chicago Lighthouse employee, describes the Rise to Shine Run & Walk, and it’s why she marks her calendar every year and invites her family and friends to participate alongside her.

What makes Rise to Shine so meaningful to her? It’s the intentionality behind it all. Everything, from the racecourse to the participant experience, is thoughtfully created to include and celebrate people with disabilities.  “This event wasn’t adapted after the fact,” Maureen says. “It was intentionally crafted from the beginning for people like me to participate. That’s what makes it special.”

This year will be even more memorable: Maureen’s sister is traveling to Chicago to make Rise to Shine part of a long girls’ weekend. They will have friends coming to town from across the country to walk and cheer together.

The Rise to Shine 10K/5K/1M Run & Walk returns for its fourth year on October 19 in the Illinois Medical District — and this year holds even more meaning as we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The fully accessible course welcomes participants of all abilities and skill levels. The race kicks off at 8 a.m., and after you cross the finish line, enjoy a lively post-race celebration with free breakfast tacos, live entertainment, a kids’ race, and more.

Please join us and experience the energy, joy, and powerful sense of belonging that Maureen and so many others feel each year. Whether you run, walk, volunteer, or cheer from the sidelines, just showing up makes all the difference.

Get $5 OFF registration with promo code EBEAM5 at www.risetoshinerace.com.