CARA Road Scholars

Welcome to CARA ROAD SCHOLARS®!

CARA ROAD SCHOLARS® is a youth running program designed to challenge students to experience the benefits of goal-setting, character development, adult mentoring and improved health by providing them with a truly life changing experience: Training for and completing the Chicago Distance Classic Half Marathon and the Bank of America Chicago Marathon!

CARA ROAD SCHOLARS® is based on Students Run L.A., a youth running program founded in 1989 that has made a significant impact on the lives of over 20,000 youth in Los Angeles. Not only have 90% of the students completed the L.A. Marathon but 95% of those who crossed the finish line have gone on to graduate from high school. Students who participate not only see dramatic improvements in their health and wellness; they see a complete turnaround in their self esteem and prospects for the future. This program has been rigorously evaluated and the results are truly astounding. Students Run L.A. operates today in 146 middle and high schools throughout greater Los Angeles and serves more than 2400 students annually. CARA is extremely excited in introducing this program to the Chicagoland Community and hope to someday offer this program to every Chicago Public High School!

CARA ROAD SCHOLARS® is funded by sponsors and private donations. If you would like information, learn more about our mission, and find out about other opportunities to support CARA ROAD SCHOLARS, we encourage you to contact Kristina Olkowski at kristina@cararuns.org, or call 312.666.9836 ext.16.

Our Students Don’t Run To Forget Who They Are…

They Run To Become Who They Want To Be!