Let’s Talk Fundraising Milestones & Incentives
October 6, 2026 is the fundraising deadline for all Mercy Home Heroes running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. By that date, all Heroes are expected to reach their minimum fundraising commitment (amount varies depending on when you registered and whether you secured your own bib for the race).
Here is the list of fundraising Incentives and Milestones for you to work toward in 2026:
- $250 Fundraised: All Heroes are expected to reach this within 30 days of Mercy Home Heroes application approval. This will unlock the Guaranteed (Charity Paid) Marathon Entry (Final marathon registration deadline is July 15, but spots will be filled as applicants reach this milestone, and we will likely be sold out before March).
- $400 Fundraised: It is recommended that Heroes reach this milestone within 60 days of Mercy Home Heroes application approval. This will open access to training with the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA). A link to register for in-person group or virtual training will be provided as soon as this milestone is achieved (Final deadline July 31, 2026, in order to receive 6-week pre-training program). NOTE: Training begins the week of June 8. All group training participants will be required to pick up their own training packets or arrange for mailing through CARA.
- $700 Fundraised: All Heroes at or above $750 by March 2, 2026 will receive Heroes custom running socks, plus entry into a drawing for a pair of shoes from retail partner Dick Pond Athletics (up to $160 value redeemable in store or online).
- $1000 Fundraised: All Heroes to reach $1000 by May 4, 2026 will receive a Heroes custom Nalgene Water bottle, plus entry into a drawing for a Brooks Grand Prize package from retail partner Dick Pond Athletics (up to $500 value redeemable in store or online).
- $1500 Fundraised: All Heroes to reach $1500 by July 6, 2026 will receive a mystery gift!
- $2200 Fundraised: All Heroes to reach $2200 by September 11, 2026 are entered into a drawing for a Brooks Grand Prize package from retail partner Dick Pond Athletics (up to $500 value redeemable in store or online). The 10 additional runners-up will receive other random Heroes surprise items.
- FINAL: All Heroes are expected to have raised their minimum by noon on Thursday, October 1, 2026 Heroes who exceed their minimum by $500, $1000, $2,500, $5,000, and $7,500 will receive prizes of Heroes custom gear and apparel to be announced.
