CHICAGO (CBS) — While Chicago baseball fans look forward to the Crosstown Classic this weekend when the White Sox host the Cubs, one local teenager is taking advantage of the opportunity by running from Wrigley Field to Guaranteed Rate Field.
Jackson Kanellis, a high school senior and dedicated BEDS Plus volunteer, invites you to enjoy the excitement of Cubs vs. Sox with a purpose at this year’s Crosstown Classic.
“I made meatballs at home and I need to stir them. My shoes and shorts are all stuck together.”
The meat sauce on his shoes is nothing compared to the long distances he has run.
“You’re bound to get dirty in the woods, so it’s OK,” he said.
For the first time, Jackson will organize a unique 12-mile run from Wrigley Field to Guaranteed Rate Field in the spirit of friendly competition and community support.
“I’ve been volunteering with BEDS Plus for the past four years and organized this 12-mile run to raise funds to help BEDS make a difference in the lives of their clients and the communities they serve,” Jackson said.
He’s on the Carl Sandburg High School cross country team and volunteers every week serving breakfast and lunch for BEDS Plus, a nonprofit that helps people experiencing homelessness in suburban southwest Cook County.
Jackson is combining his passions this summer at baseball’s big weekend, the Crosstown Classic.
“I come from a sports family, so I’ve grown up watching the Red Sox and Cubs my whole life,” Kanellis said.
Rivalries can divide sports fans, but supporting a good cause may be the quickest way to connect.
“We’re going to start at Wrigley Field and run from Addison to Sheridan Road,” Kanellis said.
On Saturday, Jackson and his track teammates will run from the North Side to the South Side.
“(It’s) a 12.2-mile run from Wrigley Field to Guaranteed Rate,” Kanellis said.
Running – Raise $5,000 for Beds Plus.
“I think more than anything, we were honored that he chose BEDS Plus and that he’s so passionate about what he’s doing in life,” said Erin Morek, development director at BEDS Plus.
“I’m really proud of him for being so young and helping others,” said Teri Rivera with BEDS Plus.
Anyone who donates to the fundraising runner can choose either the Cubs or the Sox, and Jackson will wear the jersey of the team that raised the most donations.
Last year, BEDS Plus helped more than 2,500 individuals and families, providing not only housing but also the resources they needed to achieve stability and independence.
Providing food, basic needs and comfort to those experiencing food insecurity and homelessness allows Kanellis to support his favorite Chicago baseball team. Kanellis admits he roots for a specific team.
“Honestly, I want to wear a Red Sox jersey,” Kanellis said. “We’re running to raise money and awareness for a good cause.”
While no one ignores the rivalry, the run means more to them than baseball. Running for a cause makes this year’s Crosstown Classic even more meaningful. Jackson has made and served more than 750 lunches and meals for BEDS Plus, a leading provider of assistance to people experiencing housing insecurity in the southwestern suburbs of Cook County.
Jackson Canellis’ run from Wrigley Field to Guaranteed Rate Field begins at 3pm on Saturday, August 10. To choose a team or make a donation, visit the Run for a Cause page.
