Chicago Parks Foundation

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Why Jacob Butlema Runs for the Parks

Our runners make it happen! Meet Team ChiParks in our ongoing ‘Why I Run for the Parks’ blog series highlighting members of our 2024 charity team.

The Chicago Parks Foundation has been a proud Bank of America Chicago Marathon charity partner since 2013, as well as the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle and the Bank of America Chicago 13.1.

These dedicated runners choose to make their miles extra meaningful by running on behalf of a charity. Since our start, Team ChiParks and their supporters have raised over $1.5 million for the parks - vital park projects, community programming, our citywide volunteer efforts, and more. This is the Chicago Parks Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser!


Meet Jacob Butlema, running his third marathon this year!

My first marathon was the Madison Marathon in 2022, then I ran the Chicago Marathon last year. The 2024 Chicago Marathon is a shot at redemption and a PR.

Last year I had big goals for the Chicago Marathon and after getting hurt, then taking about a month off in the summer to recover from the injury, I didn’t accomplish my goals - except one, and that was to finish. This year I am looking for the opportunity to prove to myself that I can accomplish my goals and learn from my mistakes.

WHY TEAM CHIPARKS

I am running on behalf of Team ChiParks because I value public spaces. The parks, zoos, conservatories, playgrounds, etc. are vital to communities all across the city. These public spaces provide education and recreation, among many other positive outcomes.

I am running on behalf of Team ChiParks not just for what they do for the community, but for what they have meant to me personally. The Lincoln Park Zoo and Garfield Park Conservatory have been great experiences for me and my family. Both of these essential parks provided us not only with a lot of learning but with great memories. What makes these places special is they are free to enter, making them accessible to everyone.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TRAINING FOR THE CHICAGO MARATHON?

My favorite part of training for a marathon is experiencing first hand the progress of getting better and being a part of the running community. There are so many great people in the running community who are willing to be a part of your journey, whether it's tips and tricks or someone to run with.

OTHER THAN RUNNING, WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?

I enjoy spending time with my family, playing card/board games, watching sports, and experiencing all the things Chicagoland has to offer. Additionally right now I am coaching my son’s first grade basketball team.

Thank you for choosing the parks, Jacob!