What: Big Shoulders is a 501(c)3 based in Chicago that provides scholarship support, academic enrichment opportunities, administrative resources and leadership development to provide a value-based education among students in Chicago Catholic Schools.

Why: I'm running the Chicago Marathon in support of Big Shoulders for all of the exceptional, talented students across this City - and doing just a small part in helping to bring more resources to help give them a opportunity to reach their limitless potential.

Growing up in the Catholic faith in Glenview through our sister parish, I soon had the chance to meet, work with, and get to know the Senior Pastor and congregation at St. Sabina's Church in Chicago's Auburn Gresham neighborhood. Over the past 20+ years, I have been blessed with the opportunity to get to know students, graduates, and teachers of the St. Sabina's school and have been amazed by their drive and ambition. St. Sabina's is just one of many schools in the Chicagoland area the benefits from the leadership development, operational support and scholarship offerings provided by Big Shoulders.

Then, as chance would have it, while starting my career in law at Sidley Austin, we had the opportunity to support the Big Shoulders Entrepreneurship Program. This program brought together professionals from the accounting, finance and legal industries to serve as mentors and advisors for middle school students in Chicago as they brainstormed product ideas, developed beta products and pitched their businesses to a panel of judges (including business and community leaders) from across the City.

Seeing these young people push themselves to dream, imagine and execute such thoughtful and interesting ideas was truly inspiring! It was amazing to see what these students were willing and able to push themselves to do when granted the opportunity.

I know this is a small drop in the bucket & so much more is needed to provide these schools with the resources they deserve, but I'm grateful for the chance to put my best foot forward with Big Shoulders and help drive continued support for these wonderful kids!

Thank you for anything you're willing to give.