History

The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) was founded in 1978 as an advocacy organization working toward improving running conditions for Chicagoland’s runners. In the 32 years it has been in existence, running has enjoyed a surge in participation and in Chicagoland, that increase can be directly tied to the Chicago Area Runners Association. Through CARA’s hard work, the Lakefront Path in Chicago has been properly mile marked; water fountains have been installed, maintained and turned on along the Path and in the forest preserves; public restroom facilities have increased and improved; an imposed city tax on races was lifted; and much more.

More than an advocacy group, however, CARA has created training programs that consistently see larger number of participants each year, from novices to experts. Through CARA, friendships are formed, running partnerships are born and the life-long gift of running is given.

Most often, the phrase CARA hears from non-runners is: “I could never do that.” To that, CARA responds, “Yes, you can.” Over its 32 years, CARA has seen many “non-athletes” cross the finish line of their first 5K, 10K, half marathon and marathon. Everyone is a runner just waiting to take his or her first step.

CARA will continue to serve all runners in Chicagoland through its legacy, advocacy, and mission: To keep you running—farther, faster, better, for life.