Hey there!

My name is Jake Hollowed, and guess what? I'm finally getting the chance to cross off one of my bucket list dreams: running a marathon!

Ever since I was a kid, I dreamed of crossing that finish line after 26.2 miles (hopefully somewhat quickly, that is). Now, I am excited to announce that I will be running the 2024 Chicago Marathon! As I've been training for the marathon, I am reminded of my first race in my hometown of La Grange Park, the Run for the Roses. As the miles tick up on my Fitbit, I think about how incredible it is to go from a ~120 person 5k all the way to an Official World Marathon Major with 50,000 runners annually. Not only will there be runners physically beside me, but there is also a team supporting me through each step as well.

This year, I am running and fundraising for Urban Initiatives—a fantastic organization that "uses the power of sport and play to empower Chicago's youth to achieve academic success, develop social-emotional skills, and build social capital." UI is all about teamwork, healthy living, academic success, and empowering the next generation through sports! Donations made here go to UI, where a huge 87% of expenses directly support their programs.

Come join me and Urban Initiatives on this journey, and let's make a marathon of difference together. Any contribution is greatly appreciated.