Whether you’re a seasoned climber, a first-timer, or cheering from the sidelines, your participation makes a real difference. All proceeds from the event will benefit initiatives dedicated to building food security in Evanston and beyond, helping ensure that individuals and families have reliable access to nutritious food.

Participants can choose to run up the 18 flights (318 steps) or walk up the flights. Whomever completes the most flights of stairs will go home champion and with a special prize.

Lace up your shoes and step up against hunger. Together, we can turn effort into impact and steps into lasting change.

*Please note that climbers must be 18 years or older to participate.

Why Participate?

Step Up Against Hunger offers a rare experience and flexible ways to get involved.

• Exclusive access to the normally closed stairwells of One Rotary Center, the global headquarters of Rotary International since 1987

• A unique chance to climb and experience a building visited by Rotarians from around the world

• Multiple ways to participate: climb, donate, cheer, or create your own fundraiser

• Your $25 registration provides 4 meals for community families in need, creating immediate impact.

• Visit the “Rotary in Action” lobby exhibit and see Rotary’s local-to-global impact.

• Friendly competition, community spirit, and prizes for top climbers

Getting Here

Public transportation: One Rotary Center is a short walk from the CTA Purple Line Davis station and the Metra (Union Pacific North Line) Evanston (Davis Street) station. Please see their websites for rates and additional information.

Parking: Free onsite garage parking is available for stair climb event participants on the event date. On each level of the garage except the visitor parking floor, please park only in spaces marked “Rotary.” Metered street parking is also available around the building.

What is Rotary?

Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who unite to take action against the world’s most persistent problems. Guided by a shared mission of service, integrity, and goodwill, Rotary members work through local clubs to support causes such as food security, education, health, clean water, and community development, creating lasting change close to home and around the world.

About the Rotary Club of Evanston

Founded in 1920, the Rotary Club of Evanston is one of the city’s leading charitable and service organizations. Its members—neighbors, friends, and community leaders—are committed to creating lasting change in Evanston and beyond.

For more than 100 years, the club has combined hands-on volunteer service with fundraising to support local nonprofit organizations, addressing critical issues such as youth development, food insecurity, homelessness, and community well-being.