In 1978, the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) emerged as a voice for runners - dedicating their work to running advocacy, education, and accessibility. This mission has grown into a movement that reaches all of Chicagoland. We believe that running is more than running; it's friendships and camaraderie, a ticket to better physical and mental health, and builds communities.

We offer two free community-based programs; ‘Go Run ™ and Run Crews. The ‘Go Run ™ program is at the heart of our mission and involves hosting over thirty free timed 5k and 1-mile races throughout fourteen Chicago Park District parks. Since the establishment of ‘Go Run ™ in 2017, it has proudly supported over 18,000 participants! Similarly, we conduct Run Crews that meet weekly in 6 Chicago neighborhoods. This program provides safety, support, and camaraderie, while empowering people to move beyond their perceived physical and emotional limits.

Our goal is for everyone to have the same access to the incredible physical and metal health benefits of running. It is through our Team CARA 'Go Run charity team that allows us to further our ability to carry on this work and continue to advocate for the local runners.