Why Morgan Hearn-Desautels 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!
Morgan at the start line for the DC Half, September 2023
Meet Morgan Hearn-Desautels, first time marathoner and first time Team ChiParks runner!
WHAT DOES RUNNING THE 2024 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON MEAN TO YOU?
Running the Chicago Marathon is an extension of a more long-term goal of mine, to foster mindfulness in my mental and emotional well-being. For me, running serves as a powerful therapeutic outlet, allowing me to connect with myself and reach a better sense of balance and resilience. This marathon is also an opportunity for me to run further than I ever have, and to prove to myself what I am capable of.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING WITH TEAM CHIPARKS?
I really do admire the work that the Chicago Parks Foundation is doing to involve the community in their local parks projects. I chose to run for the ChiParks team because, while I don't live in Chicago, I am a major lover of the parks in every city I’ve been to, and it feels incredible to be raising funds for a charity that I genuinely believe in.
“I am a major lover of the parks in every city I’ve been to, and it feels incredible to be raising funds for a charity that I genuinely believe in.”
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CHICAGO PARKS?
Unfortunately I am unable to use Chicago parks in my day-to-day life since I’m from out of town. But I am very much looking forward to spending time in the local parks when I’m in town for the Marathon come October.
Shout out to my local run club! #DCPynk
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TRAINING FOR THE CHICAGO MARATHON?
My favorite thing thus far has been meeting the rest of the ChiParks team over zoom. It was really great to be able to make those connections prior to the race, and I’m very much looking forward to more zoom calls between now and October.
I’ve also enjoyed the support I’ve gotten from family and friends who know that I’m running it this year.
OTHER THAN RUNNING, WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?
In my free time I’m usually spending time with my wife, Matison, and our adorable Chihuahua, Cheerio. We’re currently looking to buy our first home, as well as planning several exciting trips that we’re going on this year - Texas and Montana over the Spring/Summer, and to London in the Winter - but most importantly, our trip to Chicago in the Fall!
