The Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress is proud to be an official Partner of John Hancock in the Marathon Non-Profit Program. The Non-Profit Program provides over 1000 Boston Marathon® bibs to select non-profit organizations throughout the community, which provides organizations with a significant fundraising opportunity. In 2018, John Hancock Non-Profit Runners raised over $13.1M for their causes. This year, 2019, marked a record-breaking year for the program with the John Hancock and BAA Programs raising over $38.7M combined for 297 non-profit organizations. 

If you have another event on your personal “must do” list – be it a marathon, triathlon, swim or bicycle race – you, too, can help the MDSC. Whether the event takes place in Massachusetts, Maine or Mexico, the MDSC will help you directly translate your physical exertion into critical funds and public awareness for Down syndrome (see Race for Awareness below).

Whatever your event, let the mission of the MDSC be a source of inspiration as you train. When crossing the finish line means having made a difference in the lives of people with Down syndrome, it never felt so good.

Please note: There is a separate application process for each Race for MDSC event. Fundraising minimums apply to all events. 

Boston Marathon


Since 2012, the MDSC has been an official charity of the John Hancock™ Non-Profit Marathon Program, raising over $736,000. Since then, dozens of dedicated individuals have had the opportunity to fulfill their personal dream and run the marathon in honor of people with Down syndrome.

Led by Coach Susan Hurley of CharityTeams, each team member accomplished a monumental feat in completing the grueling 26.2 mile course. But they achieved so much more. By training, racing and ultimately crossing the finish line (nearly everyone has), they also raised significant awareness and funds to directly support our programs and services. Susan, a premier marathon runner herself, has continued to lead Team MDSC to great success.

In 2019, we were proud to continue our powerful partnership with the John Hancock™ Non-Profit Marathon Program. On April 15, Team MDSC once again took on the 26.2 trek from Hopkinton to Copley Square. 

Stay Tuned for 2020 Bibs 

If you have  always dreamed of running the historic Boston Marathon -- whether breaking a world record or reaching an incredible personal milestone -- why not do it with Team MDSC, and make a difference in the lives of people with Down syndrome along the way. 

Benefits of running for Team MDSC include:

•            All Charity runners will receive and official bib into the Boston Marathon
•          Program is managed by CharityTeams.com which provides runners with the guidance and encouragement to successfully meet the goals of both running and fundraising
•          All runners will have a personalized online fundraising page and receive fundraising support from the MDSC and CharityTeams
•            MDSC running singlet
•            Transportation to race starting line
•            Invitation to MDSC pre-race even
•        Opportunity to participate in organized weekly group runs on the Boston Marathon® course complete with aid station support
•        CharityTeams weekly communications and monthly meetings with guest speakers
•          Swag – lots of gear to wear before, during and after running
•          A positive team experience and memorable journey of running the historic Boston Marathon  

Falmouth Road Race

Every August, 20+ runners, both first-timers and old-timers, earn spots on MDSC’s team to compete in the New Balance Falmouth Road Race. Known as one of the best non-marathon races in the country, this seven-mile course thrills runners as they hug the scenic Cape Cod’s shoreline. Please note: Qualified runners who get a waiver can also join the team. 

For 2019, we’re thrilled to have 30 numbers for our MDSC community! You can join the MDSC Team and help promote acceptance and inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome!

As a registered MDSC team member, you are guaranteed:

• an official number in the race 
• a special MDSC running singlet
• an invitation to join us at our pre-race luncheon on the weekend of the race in Falmouth
• and much more. 

We will also send you some quick and effective tips to raise awareness and funds. Fill out your application here! 

Race for Awareness (Other Endurance Events)

If you are participating in another endurance event and would like to support the MDSC as part of your journey, please complete the Race for Awareness application. We will set you up with your own personal fundraising page and provide you with a MDSC singlet.

If you are interested in participating in a Race for MDSC event or have other questions, email us at race@mdsc.org.