Team Friendship
Limited Spots
Friendship Circle
NYC Half Marathon 2026
March 15, 2026 | Guaranteed Entry
I'm InterestedScroll
500+
Past Runners
$2M+
Funds Raised
80+
Chapters Served
13.1
Miles of Purpose
Why We Run
Half the Distance, Full Heart
This isn't a race against the clock. It's 13.1 miles for the kids who wait by the window every week for their friend to arrive. For the teens who show up, not because they have to, but because friendship isn't something you schedule.When you run with Team Friendship through the streets of Brooklyn and Manhattan, you carry their names with you. Every mile funds real friendships between teen volunteers and children with special needs.
The Experience
What You Get
Guaranteed Entry
Skip the lottery. Your spot in the United NYC Half Marathon is secured the moment you join the team.Personal Training Plan
A customized program from Coach Chaim with ongoing support, matched to your level, from first run to finish line.Fundraising Toolkit
Email templates, social media content, text scripts, and real Friendship Circle stories to share with your network.Pre-Race Dinner
Celebrate with the full Team Friendship community the night before. You'll cross that start line with people who have your back.Race Day Cheer Squad
Team Friendship DJ, a cheer spot with swag and refreshments, and the loudest cheering section on the course. You'll hear us coming.Team Jersey & Gear
Official Team Friendship race jersey and specialty merchandise. You'll be the most recognized team on the course.The Commitment
Your Miles Become Friendships
$2,500
Fundraising Minimum
It sounds like a number. But it's really a year of weekly visits between a teen volunteer and a child who needs a friend. Every dollar you raise creates real, lasting connections. And you won't raise it alone.
Ready-to-send email templates
Social media content and graphics
Text message scripts
Personal fundraising page
Real stories from FC families
Dedicated fundraising support
The Mission
Who Is Friendship Circle
Friendship Circle pairs teen volunteers with individuals with special needs, creating real friendships through weekly visits, social programs, and community events. What started in 1994 has grown into a movement across 80+ cities worldwide.Team Friendship is how runners, hikers, and cyclists power this mission through endurance events.80+
Chapters
14,000
Teen Volunteers
30+
Years
Common Questions
Do I need to be a fast runner?
No. Team Friendship welcomes all paces. Whether you're chasing a PR or crossing the finish line for the first time, what matters is why you're running. Coach Chaim builds a training plan matched to your current level.
What if I can't raise $2,500?
We've never had a runner fail to reach their goal. The fundraising toolkit, templates, and dedicated support make it straightforward. Your network wants to help. They just need to be asked. We'll show you exactly how.
Is the half marathon entry guaranteed?
Yes. As a Team Friendship runner, you receive a guaranteed entry to the United NYC Half Marathon. No lottery, no waitlist. Your spot is secured when you commit to the team.
When does training start?
Coach Chaim creates a personalized plan based on your fitness level and timeline. Most half marathon plans begin 10 to 14 weeks before race day, but you'll have guidance and support from the moment you join.
Is the NYRR registration fee included?
The NYRR registration fee is separate from your fundraising minimum. Team Friendship covers your guaranteed race entry, and you'll handle the standard NYRR registration fee directly.
Can I raise money through my own channels too?
Absolutely. You'll have a personal fundraising page to share, but you're welcome to collect donations however works best for you. We'll help track everything toward your goal.
Your 13.1 Starts Here
No commitment yet. Fill out the interest form and we'll be in touch within 24 hours.