GRAND MARSHAL MEG COOPER CELEBRATES THE ROTARY RUN CHARITY CLASSIC

On Sunday, October 1, 2023 people from all over Chicagoland will show their support for their communities and local charities by participating in the annual Rotary Run Charity Classic. All events begin at The Community House, and wind through the historic streets of Hinsdale.

This year’s Grand Marshal Meg Cooper, a long time Hinsdale resident and Executive Director of the District 181 Foundation, waxes poetic about the beauty and community spirit of the day. “It’s usually a perfect fall day, with crisp blue skies and the leaves starting to turn vibrant colors. The children are so excited and it’s one of the events that make you feel so happy that you moved here,” she says.

With 3K, 5K, and 10K runs, 3K and 5K walks and the ever-popular Mutt Strut, this annual event will bring more than 2,500 participants and spectators to the course who will step up for their children and families. A variety of family activities will be featured, including sponsor booths, refreshments, music and more. The mascot race is not to be missed.

Cooper loves the friendly competition inspired by medals awarded to winners in the elementary grades. “I’ve seen kindergarten sisters win their races, while their athletic third grade brother comes in a close second. Everyone wins, really, but for that morning, she has bragging rights.” As Grand Marshal, handing out medals and ribbons is a big part of the day. “Thank goodness it’s all calculated for us. In the early years, there were hand calculations and I’ve seen very accomplished doctors and other professionals experience a bit of anxiety around assuring that the medals are handed out correctly,” Cooper says.

Proceeds will benefit leading community charities which include: The Community House, District 181 Foundation, Hinsdale Hospital Foundation, Rotary Club of Hinsdale Foundation and Ray Graham Association-Hanson Center.

“This is the 29th annual Rotary Run Charity Classic. The 2023 event builds on over 60 years of service, more than two million dollars of support Hinsdale Rotary and its charities have provided to the surrounding communities and around the world. Our goal this year, as always, is “service above self ”, and to positively impact the lives of many area residents.” said Carolyn Snyder, President of the Hinsdale Rotary Club.

Cooper offer her appreciation for the Hinsdale Rotary Club’s staunch support of the District 181 Foundation. “Every year the Rotary Club of Hinsdale is the largest donor to the Foundation and their cumulative donations to the foundation over the years are also the largest. We are so grateful to the Rotary Club of Hinsdale for the support and for being such a positive force in our area and encouraging all of us to be better people,” she says.

“The bikes for military kids program is a great example of the good this group does,” Cooper says.

Entry fees are as low as $25 a person and $75 for a family of four to six members. With flash sales and special pricing, it’s possible to enjoy this incredible day of fun and fitness for even less. The Rotary Run Charity Classic donates all proceeds of the race to charity. The charities chosen to receive donations are impactful locally, regionally, and even nationally and internationally. In addition to the District 181 Foundation, The Community House, Hinsdale Hospital Foundation, the Ray Graham Association, and the Rotary Club of Hinsdale Foundation will also receive donations.

Interested runners or walkers are encouraged to register online at rotaryruncharityclassic.com.