CHICAGO, IL — Peace Runners 773 is proud to announce that its founder and CEO, Jackie Hoffman, has been selected by the Chicago Bulls as an MLK Legacy Award honoree for the 2025-26 cohort. This prestigious recognition celebrates individuals who embody the spirit and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through their dedication to equity, social justice, and community empowerment.
Hoffman will be formally inducted and celebrated by the Chicago Bulls during the annual MLK Day Game on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
Since founding Peace Runners 773 in 2020, Jackie Hoffman has become a leading voice for health equity on Chicago’s West Side. What began as a personal mission to help his mother improve her health has grown into a transformative movement in Garfield Park. Under Hoffman’s leadership, Peace Runners 773 provides safe spaces for movement, physical and mental wellness resources, and community-building programs in historically disinvested neighborhoods.
“Your nomination for this award is a true testament to the impactful work your organization continues to do for our city, and a reflection of your leadership and dedication to the community,” the Chicago Bulls stated in their announcement to Hoffman.
Peace Runners 773 has achieved remarkable milestones under Hoffman’s guidance, including mobilizing over 1,000 participants for 5K events and fostering a culture of resilience through marathon training and senior-focused wellness programs like “Young at Heart.” The organization continues to bridge the life expectancy gap in Chicago by advocating for holistic health as a fundamental right.
“Receiving the MLK Legacy Award from the Chicago Bulls is a profound honor,” said Jackie Hoffman. “Dr. King spoke of the ‘Beloved Community,’ and that is exactly what we are building on the West Side. This award isn’t just for me; it’s for every runner and resident who believes that our zip code should not determine our health or our future.”
The Chicago Bulls’ MLK Legacy Honoree program, often supported by partners like Advocate Health Care, highlights local leaders who are making tangible contributions to race relations, justice, and community health.
For more information about Jackie Hoffman and the mission of Peace Runners 773, please visit peacerunners773.com.
About Peace Runners 773
Peace Runners 773 is a Chicago-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for health equity. By creating safe spaces for physical activity and providing holistic wellness solutions, Peace Runners 773 empowers underserved communities to take control of their physical, mental, and social well-being.
About the Chicago Bulls MLK Legacy Award
The Chicago Bulls MLK Legacy Award recognizes civic leaders who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through work in education, social justice, and health equity across the Chicagoland area.