In 2017, our daughter Elizabeth Grace, lovingly known as Ellie, joined our family through adoption. Ellie has cerebral palsy and microcephaly caused by a prenatal brain injury. Like many families raising a child with disabilities, we quickly found ourselves navigating therapies, medical appointments, adaptive equipment, educational challenges, and the financial burdens that often come with them.

Along the way, we experienced something we never expected: the incredible generosity of others.

Friends, family members, churches, therapists, teachers, and even complete strangers stepped in to encourage us, pray for us, and help carry burdens that often felt overwhelming. Through those experiences, God began shaping a vision in our hearts. We realized there were many families walking a similar road who needed support, encouragement, and hope.

In 2021, we launched the first Race for Ellie as a way to celebrate Ellie while raising awareness and support for the special needs community. We expected a small local event. Instead, our community showed up in a way that exceeded anything we could have imagined. Families ran, businesses sponsored, volunteers served, and people rallied around a cause that mattered.

What began as a race for one little girl quickly became something much bigger.

As we met more families, heard more stories, and saw the growing needs around us, we realized this mission was never meant to be about Ellie alone. It was about Ellie and friends like her. Children with disabilities. Siblings. Caregivers. Parents. Families carrying unique challenges while fighting every day to help their loved ones thrive.

That realization led to the creation of Ellie & Friends.

Today, Ellie & Friends exists to support families of individuals with special needs for God's glory. Through financial assistance, practical support, community programs, caregiver encouragement, and advocacy, we strive to remind families that they are seen, valued, and never alone.

The Race for Ellie & Friends has become more than an annual event. It is a celebration of inclusion, community, and the belief that every individual is created on purpose, with purpose, and for a purpose.

Every registration, sponsorship, donation, and volunteer hour helps us continue that mission.

The funds raised through this year's Race for Ellie & Friends will directly support families of individuals with special needs for God's glory. Together, we are helping provide resources, encouragement, and practical support to families who often face extraordinary challenges.

What started with one little girl has grown into a movement of people committed to making a difference.

We invite you to join us.

The Race For Ellie & Friends 2026