Chicago Marathon 2024: Charity runners James Kennedy and Mike Keane are raising money for the Northern Illinois Food Bank, among others

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (WLS) – Tens of thousands of runners are expected to stroll downtown for the Chicago Marathon on Sunday.

Many of the participants will be running for important causes, including a local food bank that works to feed those in need.

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James Kennedy and Mike Keane are preparing to run more than 26 miles to support the Northern Illinois Food Bank, which is no easy task. They are motivated by the memory of Sharon Kennedy, Kennedy’s mother and Keane’s friend, who died of ovarian cancer in December.

“It was tough,” Kennedy said. “Losing someone who was one of the great loves of my life. It was hard for everyone.”

Kennedy was a young boy when he and his sister cheered on their mother in the Chicago Marathon. She ran it several times and created lasting memories for her family. She was also a dedicated volunteer for the Northern Illinois Food Bank and brought her family to many of their volunteer events.

When Kennedy and Keane decided to host this year’s Bank of America Chicago Marathon for charity, the decision was easy.

“She just loved life, her family and her friends so much,” Keane said. “It still inspires me to this day.”

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Charity is an important part of the marathon. Last year, approximately 14,000 charity runners raised more than $30 million for various non-profit charities. Those responsible for the marathon expect to exceed these numbers this year.

The Northern Illinois Food Bank relies on support to keep up with increasing demand for its services. Due to rising food prices, demand has increased by 10% compared to last year.

“We struggle to get the food we need to our neighbors. The aid organizations need more food,” said Keane. “We need more food, so we’re trying to keep up with that demand. It’s really a challenge.”

The two runners said they had completed marathon training and were now ready for the big day. They rely on the support of the huge fan base along the marathon route. That and her memories of Sharon Kennedy.

“They were really fond memories and definitely inspired me to do this and doing it in her honor is more sentimental for me,” James said.

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The 30 members of the Northern Illinois Food Bank marathon team have raised over $42,000 to date. They’re still some way from their goal of $70,000 as of Wednesday, but they say all of the money is desperately needed. It goes to the food bank’s nutrition programs.