Doc Mark's Run was founded in 1999 by Dr. Mark Szymanski, a now retired Chiropractor from the Chicago area. Doc developed polio as a child and spent many years of his youth in hospitals and institutions, during which he witnessed countless children that were alone during the holidays and received nothing. As a result, he made it his personal goal to do whatever he could to make as many children feel as special as possible. Doc believes that it's not only about a child getting a toy, also that a child feels that he/she really does matter to someone. 100% of the proceeds from this event benefit many disabled, handicapped and underprivileged children at Christmas who may otherwise receive nothing.
Our network of charities include: New Horizon Center for the Developmentally Disabled, Friends of Handicapped, Maryville Academy City of Youth and Illinois Masonic Children's Home. With the network expanding every year.
Please take a look at our website for more information on the event as well as information on our supporters.