Frequently Asked Questions

YAB (Young Associates Board) is a group of individuals that have a shared passion to help children battling brain tumors worldwide. Since our inception in 2000, the YAB has raised over $2.1 million to fund critical research and patient support programs through events like the annual Run for Gus. In addition to supporting research, the YAB provides service-oriented events to support the families impacted by this disease.

Yes! Medals will be awarded to the top three female and male finishers.

Yes! All races are planned to be held in person on July 25. Registration includes access to the After Party at Diversey Harbor, and only registered participants will be able to attend. We will share our final plan 30 days before the event to make sure you have the most final details and information.

Anyone! There are events for varying ages and abilities including a 5K run, 1 mile walk, and kids dash. We also have a virtual participation type for those who can’t participate in person

There will be a complimentary secured gear check at the event that is monitored by volunteers. Your gear will be checked according to your bib number. We cannot be responsible for any lost or stolen items, so please do not check anything of value.

No. For safety reasons, pets cannot be on the course.

No. For safety reasons, bikes, skates, scooters, and wheeled vehicles are not allowed on the course. Service animals, wheelchairs, or hand cranks for participants who need them are allowed.

If you plan on participating with a stroller or baby jogger, they are required to start in the rear of the start corral. Please just be mindful of other participants to keep everyone safe!

Please contact Sophia Paarz at [email protected].

Online registration will close Monday, July 22 at 11:00am (CST). You may still register for the event at packet pick-up and/or on race day.

You can find all the information about registration by visiting our registration page. You can join as an individual, or start or join a group.

There are early bird registration discounts until June 7, 2024. Please check the registration page for more details.

Yes, online registration will close Monday, July 22 at 11:00am (CST) but on-site registrations will be accepted on event day.

Yes! You can reach out to the team here.

Although we do not enforce a fundraising minimum, participants are encouraged to raise at least $100.

Yes, all donations in which goods or services are not received are 100% tax deductible.

Lurie Children’s Foundation will send gift receipts and acknowledgment letters to everyone who donates on behalf of a runner within 10 business days of receiving the gift. Please note that donations made online will receive an electronic gift receipt only.

The fastest and easiest way is to refer your supporters to your personal fundraising page on the website. For those who prefer to write a check, please complete the donation form and attach it to any donations so that we can add it to your fundraising total and acknowledge your donors. Checks should be made payable to Lurie Children’s Foundation (your name should be included on the memo line) and mailed to:

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago Foundation
Attn: Community Events
Department 4586
Carol Stream, IL 60122-4586

Each participant can create a personal fundraising page on our event website. We have provided free online tools to help you share your personal story to inspire others to give on your behalf.

Participants have the opportunity to create personal pages on the Run for Gus website that can be used to share their story, store contacts, raise money, track fundraising and thank supporters. They also have access to letter templates and a donation form on the website. We encourage participants to share their stories and personalize their web pages to inspire friends, family and colleagues to support their efforts.

First, check to see if your company has a matching gift program for health organizations. The website, MatchingGifts.com can be helpful indetermining which companies match donations. Complete a matching gift form (available from your company's Human Resources department) and send it in with your donation.

You can keep track of your fundraising efforts through your participant center. When a donation is made online, it is processed automatically and added toward your fundraising total. Donations made by check or money order will be processed and counted toward your total within 10 business days after they are received.

YES! Corporate sponsorship is a great way for an organization to associate their brand with Lurie Children’s world-renowned care and reputation while helping you achieve your fundraising goals! Visit our sponsors page for more information.

During Run for Gus registration, you will have the option to make a commitment and Carry a Bead in honor of a patient at Lurie Children’s. For an additional $15 donation, you will receive a matched bead set and a pewter TEAM Beads of Courage charm at packet pick-up. Keep one bead as a symbol of your support for a child coping with a brain tumor. Carry the other bead with you during your Run for Gus race. At the end of the race, return the bead along with a personal note of encouragement. Young Associates Board will give these beads and notes to a Beads of Courage members at Lurie Children’s following Run for Gus.

Anyone can Carry A Bead! Whether you are registered as an individual or as part of a team, joining Beads of Courage gives you the opportunity to give a child undergoing treatment at Lurie Children’s a bead to add to their string and mark stages in their journey.

Learn more about Beads of Courage.