I ran for this charity in 2024 and I'm baaaack! Here's why, cliff notes version: -I spent 10 years working as a foster care social worker and supervisor in both NY & NC -I'm currently a guardian ad litem (court advocate) for a teenage girl in foster care -I am a licensed foster parent and do respite care for kiddos who are in the states custody More importantly... When I ran this race for 2024, I was able to meet children receiving services from Mercy Home, meet the staff, and tour a portion of the campus. This place is magical. What they do for foster children and at-risk youth in Chicago is truly life changing. Mercy Home has been around since 1887 and is a privately funded organization. What does this mean? Every dollar donated is CRUCIAL to providing safety, supportive services, school services, and family services to the children of Mercy Home. Mercy Home isn't just a name... it is a HOME for so many children who otherwise have no place to go. No amount is too small. Every dollar counts.