Friendship Circle
NYC Marathon 2026
Every Mile Has a Name
This isn't a race against the clock. It's 26.2 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, you carry their names with you. Every mile funds real friendships between teen volunteers and children with special needs.
What You Get
Guaranteed Entry
Skip the lottery. Your spot in the TCS NYC 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 Celebration
Dinner with the full Team Friendship community the night before. You'll cross that start line with people who have your back.
Team Jersey & Gear
Official Team Friendship race jersey and specialty merchandise. You'll be the most recognized team on the course.
Finish Line Family
Friends, family, and community cheering you to the end. This is what running for something bigger feels like.
Your Miles Become Friendships
It sounds like a number. But it's really 120 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
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.
Common Questions
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.
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.
Yes. As a Team Friendship runner, you receive a guaranteed entry to the TCS NYC Marathon. No lottery, no waitlist. Your spot is secured when you commit to the team.
Coach Chaim creates a personalized plan based on your fitness level and timeline. Most plans begin 16 to 20 weeks before race day, but you'll have guidance and support from the moment you join.
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 26.2 Starts Here
No commitment yet. Fill out the interest form and we'll be in touch within 24 hours.
Looking for the NYC Half Marathon? Or explore all Team Friendship events.