Why Isabel Runs for the Parks
Meet Team ChiParks in our ongoing ‘Why I Run for the Parks’ blog series highlighting members of our 2025 charity team.
The Chicago Parks Foundation has been a proud Bank of America Chicago Marathon charity partner since 2013, as well as the Bank of America Chicago 13.1.
These dedicated runners choose to make their miles extra meaningful by running on behalf of a charity. Since our start, Team ChiParks and their supporters have raised nearly $2 million for the parks - vital park projects, community programming, our citywide volunteer efforts, and more. This is the Chicago Parks Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser. We are thankful to our team!
Meet Isabel Saltzman, first time marathoner but big time Chicago Parks supporter!
This marks Isabel’s first marathon, but she has completed two half marathons: the Chicago Lifetime Half and the NYRR Brooklyn Half. As part of her marathon prep this year, she also completed the Toyota Miles Per Hour Run and the NYRR NYC Half.
Though it’s her first time running with Team ChiParks, Isabel is no stranger to the Chicago Parks Foundation - she and her family have played a major role in CPF’s annual Run for the Parks 5K event, which is sponsored by the Saltzman family business, Banner Wholesale Grocers! Isabel looks forward to running the 5K for the third time this September along with friends and family.
WHAT DOES RUNNING THE 2025 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON MEAN TO YOU?
Running the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon means so much to me—it represents dedication, hard work, perseverance, fun, commitment, and passion. I’m beyond excited to take my love for running to the next level and be part of such an incredible event.
WHY TEAM CHIPARKS
I’m running for Team ChiParks because my family and our family business have a deep commitment to the organization, and it’s something we all truly value. I couldn’t imagine running for any other team and I’m proud to be part of it.
“It’s amazing to watch the parks evolve and grow over the years. Honestly, I wouldn’t be running this marathon without them - they’ve played a huge role in my journey.”
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CHICAGO’S PARKS?
I absolutely love Chicago's parks because they’re my happy place while I run. The city’s commitment to its parks is what motivates me to get out and run every day. It’s amazing to watch the parks evolve and grow over the years, and honestly, I wouldn’t be running this marathon without them—they’ve played a huge role in my journey.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TRAINING FOR THE CHICAGO MARATHON?
My favorite thing about training is the sense of accomplishment when I cross the finish line. While training can be long, tiring and exciting, I love knowing that every step brings me closer to that moment. I also enjoy meeting new people along the way and running through the different neighborhoods - it adds so much to the experience.
I’m also lucky to have the best trainer - shoutout Tony! - who helps me with my form, keeps me accountable, and plans my runs every week. Tony’s support has been a huge part of my training experience thus far.
OTHER THAN RUNNING, WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?
I’m passionate about travel and adventures, and my next destination is Japan. I also love cooking and discovering new restaurants. I share my foodie adventures on Chicago-based food Instagram, @chitown_foodies, where I’ve built a community of over 23K followers. Above all, I cherish spending quality time with family and friends.
