Chicago -- On Sunday, October 11, 2026, 263 runners will take on the Chicago Marathon's 26.2-mile course as part of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's (AFSP) "Race for Hope" team, turning their mileage into fundraising for mental health research and education.
Team Has Raised Nearly $4.6 Million Since 2010
More than 1,800 participants have run under the Race for Hope banner since the team joined the Chicago Marathon in 2010, collectively raising close to $4.6 million for AFSP. This year's 263-member team is aiming to add nearly $1 million more to that total.
Runners Wear Jerseys With Personal Stories on the Back
Each team member races in a custom jersey featuring the Race for Hope logo on the front and a personal message on the back -- often naming a loved one lost to suicide or reflecting on their own mental health struggles.
Nine in Ten Suicide Deaths Linked to Undiagnosed Conditions
AFSP notes that nationally, nine in ten people who die by suicide were living with a diagnosable mental health condition at the time of death, conditions that frequently went undiagnosed or untreated. The foundation's Illinois chapter runs statewide volunteer-led prevention education programs promoting self-care techniques and professional support.
Team Co-Captain Describes a Summer of Training and Outreach
"Members of AFSP's Race for Hope Chicago Marathon team have spent the summer training to run 26.2 miles and fundraising for suicide prevention," said Steve Moore, team co-captain and former Illinois chapter board member. He added that conversations with thousands of donors have helped spread awareness while funding AFSP's research, education and advocacy work.
AFSP and JED Foundation Plan to Merge
AFSP has also announced intentions to merge as equals with The Jed Foundation (JED) to form AFSP/JED, which would combine AFSP's chapter network and research with JED's youth mental health programs.
Anyone at risk of suicide, or concerned about someone who may be, can call, text or chat 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.