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An integral part of our success is a community of volunteers, corporations, organizations and more who give of their time and talents to help our patients succeed.
Below are a multitude of ways to begin supporting Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. Join us in our mission to Advance Human Ability by getting involved today.
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Associate Board
The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Associate Board is a group of emerging business and civic leaders who are committed to raising funds, increasing awareness and contributing to the continued success of Shirley Ryan AbilityLab through events and volunteer programs.
Keystone Board
The success of Shirley Ryan AbilityLab relies heavily on the support of our Keystone Board to advance our ambitious mission and vision and to meet our annual fundraising goals. The Keystone Board is made up of individuals who are champions, fundraisers, ambassadors and leaders in support of our mission to Advance Human Ability.
Vocational Rehabilitation Business Board
Established in 1973, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s Business Team, in collaboration with our Vocational Rehabilitation Program, consists of representatives from influential Chicagoland organizations (including Walgreens, CDW and Seyfarth Shaw) who are committed to the employment and advancement of individuals with physical and cognitive impairments. Its purpose is to engage the active participation of the business community to enable qualified individuals with barriers to obtain employment and succeed in the workforce. It also provides education to employers on the benefits of employing and accommodating people after the completion of their rehabilitation.
Ways to Fundraise
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SkyRise Chicago
SkyRise Chicago challenges participants to conquer the world’s tallest indoor stair climb by foot or with hand power using a handcycle. You can sign up as an individual or with a team.
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Chicago Marathon Team
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an official charity partner of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Make your miles matter by running or cycling for our marathon team and fundraising for our not-for-profit organization. By joining, you will not only raise funds to support our patients, but your participation will help us grow our team for future years! Have a bib? It's not too late to join our 2024 team! Contact Kayla Nelson at knelson03@sralab.org for more information.
Run a Race
Is there a race you would like to run? Why not run as part of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab team? We will make sure you are race day ready with branded gear and we will help you fundraise as you train.
In Lieu of Gifts…Support Ability for Your Birthday
You may reach a point in life when you feel more compelled to support a cause than receive gifts. If this sounds like you, perhaps you would consider asking friends to make a donation to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for your birthday, anniversary or milestone achievement in lieu of a receiving a gift.
Corporate Match
Does your company match donations? If you aren’t sure, start by asking someone in your Human Resources Department. Corporate match programs are wonderful ways for individuals to double, sometimes triple, their personal gifts through the companies for whom they work. For more information, please contact Annie Minogue at aminogue@sralab.org.
Corporate Partnership Program
At Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, we seek relationships beyond dollars — human connections that engage, inspire, educate and create business value. As a corporate partner, your company will have access to exclusive employee volunteer, networking and education opportunities. For more information, contact Amy Smith at asmith09@sralab.org.
Events
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Discovery Moments
A series of intimate events highlighting Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s expertise in translational medicine. Topics will vary and each event will include cocktails and light appetizers.
Art in Motion
Hosted by the Associate Board, this annual event raises funds for Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s Art Therapy and Therapeutic Recreation programs and showcases work submitted by our very own artists.
Inside Look: Science of Ability
An immersive event that provides you with direct access to brilliant scientists who are changing the way our patients are treated in real-time.
Spark!
Each spring, we look forward to Spark! — our signature, most significant fundraiser. It's an unforgettable evening of groundbreaking research and inspiring stories of resilience.
To learn more about any of our events, please contact Kayla Nelson at knelson03@sralab.org.