Making a Difference by Making a Footprint

photo by: Metaxin

It's that time of year again, when summer closes to an end and fun fall activities, like the Chicago Marathon, peek around the corner. As this approaches and we all start to make our fall agendas, the Bank of America introduces the first digital fundraising program featuring 2009 race participants and spectators. If you have been to the Chicago Marathon before, runner or not, you would agree that it is an exhilarating experience. Even from the sidelines you become a part of the race, entirely.

Even if you are just cheering or sharing your inspirational quotes and thoughts, it is just as important as any role in the race. How? Because without the energy supplied by the crowd, the runners are without an encouraging atmosphere to help them push to the last mile. Regardless of your role, anyone is welcome to create their own digital running shoe footprint with a personal image and message of choice at www.chicagomarathon.com/footprint. It's quick and easy so anyone can participate. With each submitted tread, Bank of America will donate $1 to one of 22 charities that you may select during the creation of your footprint. You can support the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago with just one click of your mouse! The support from these small donations will go a long way and greatly assist in helping those in need. When you are done, you may even view your completed digital image on the event site’s home page. On the day of the race, the fundraising's final outcome will be announced and Bank of America will award an additional $10,000 to the charity with the most submissions.

Just because you are not running the Chicago Marathon, doesn't mean you can't help change lives. By making a personal footprint you can support runners and the Red Cross, as well as partake in one of the greatest and most inspirational events where people travel from all over, to reach their goals at the finish line. The 26.2 miles takes thousands of steps, but if you just take this one, it will go much farther. By donating your personal footprint, you can show that every step counts for something great.