Since 1978 the Chicago Area Runners Association -- CARA, a non-profit organization has been dedicated to running advocacy in Chicago and suburbs. Starting as the local running club, CARA has grown into the organization that championed the running movement across Chicagoland. We help runners run better, farther, faster and with more fun by clearing paths to a wealth of training, social, outreach and advocacy programs, while promoting friendships and personal fulfillment. We are:
The third largest local community of runners in America.
Advocates for running, filling over 9,500 volunteer roles and serving over 42,000 hours of volunteer service per year.
The largest provider of group training programs in America, with programs serving runners 6 to over 85.
Expanding running and building community by providing ‘Go Runs, 72 free-timed 1 Mile and 5K runs per year in underserved neighborhood parks around Chicago.
The organization that brings together Chicagoland’s running clubs for competition and camaraderie through the 15 race Runners’ Choice Circuit.
The voice of every runner, representing Chicagoland runners to municipalities on projects such as the Lakefront Trail Separation.
Promoting safety and quality event practices by administering the CARA Race Certification program and providing monthly free race director clinics.
Developing future runners through the Chicago Stars! Youth Club.
Supporting those who run for a greater purpose by training runners from over 50 charity fundraising teams.
