Chicago Area Runners Association

Founded in 1978, Chicago Area Runners Association is a non-profit association based in Chicago, United States working on sport for development, community development, health.

The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) is a non-profit running club and advocacy organisation serving the running community in Chicago and the wider Chicagoland area. Founded in 1978 by a group of runners who sought better race standards, more opportunities for women and stronger training programmes, CARA runs free community races and events, including the Go Run series held in Chicago Park District parks, along with training programmes, a competitive racing circuit, runner education and accessibility initiatives. It also advocates for runners and runner safety, for example on the Lakefront Trail, and works with partners such as the Chicago Park District, PUMA and other community groups. Membership supports its programmes, and the organisation relies on volunteers at its events. Its office is located in the Pilsen neighbourhood of Chicago.