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Emily Main's Fundraising Page

Emily Main
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Emily Main

Please help me support by making a contribution to my fundraiser and sharing this page with your family and friends. Every dollar I raise will advance Organization for Autism Research's great cause! 


WHY RUN FOR AUTISM?
1 in 31 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism. By joining the RUN FOR AUTISM team, you’re supporting OAR’s mission to fund research and resources that help people with autism and their families today.


Here are some of the ways that OAR uses the funds raised by the RUN FOR AUTISM team:

$10 provides a Curriculum in a Box professional development set to general education teachers.
$25 provides 15 copies of A Guide to Safety to families and first responders.
$100 provides the Kit for Kids peer education resource to an entire elementary or middle school.
$150 provides 100 copies of a Life Journey through Autism guidebook sent to a community support group or military installation.
$1,000 provides a research grant for a graduate student studying autism.
$3,000 provides a scholarship for a student with autism to attend college.
$50,000 fully underwrites an applied research pilot study.
APR
6

Coming out of Easter weekend, I’ve been thinking a lot about what balance looks like right now—both in life and in training. Things don’t always go perfectly, and I’ve been learning to give myself some flexibility while still staying committed to the bigger goal. I’m still running when I can, fitting in miles where they make sense, and leaning more into cross-training lately—especially at solidcore. It’s been a different kind of challenge, but one that’s helping me build strength in ways I didn’t expect. This season of training feels less about perfection and more about consistency, showing up in whatever way I’m able that day. April also marks Autism Acceptance Month, which makes this point in the journey feel especially meaningful. I’m continuing to fundraise for the Organization for Autism Research (OAR), and this month feels like an important reminder of why this cause matters. In the work I do, I see how impactful the right support and resources can be—not just for individuals, but for entire families navigating systems that can often feel overwhelming. OAR’s work continues to stand out because it’s practical, accessible, and centered on real-life needs. This part of the journey feels a little quieter than the start—less about big milestones and more about staying grounded in purpose, building strength over time, and continuing forward. If supporting this cause is something that resonates with you, I’d be grateful if you’d consider donating or sharing. Every bit of support helps contribute to resources that make a meaningful difference. For now, I’ll keep moving forward—one run, one class, one step at a time 💙

MAR
30

Lately, training has started to feel more real. The miles are adding up, the early mornings are getting earlier, and the runs aren’t always easy—but each one reminds me why I started this journey in the first place. As I prepare for the New York City Marathon, I’m not just training for race day. I’m also working toward a fundraising goal in support of Organization for Autism Research (OAR). In my work, I have the privilege of supporting youth and families navigating complex systems every day. I see firsthand how important access to resources, support, and advocacy truly is—not just for individuals, but for entire families. And while I’ve shared a bit about my “why,” what continues to motivate me during training is knowing that this effort contributes to something bigger than myself. OAR focuses on practical, real-life impact. The funds raised don’t just sit in theory—they go toward tools for educators, support for families, and research that helps people navigate everyday life. That kind of impact matters. Training for a marathon is a commitment. It’s showing up on the days when you feel strong, and especially on the days when you don’t. It’s pushing through discomfort, staying consistent, and trusting the process. In many ways, it mirrors the resilience I see in the families I work with every day. I still have a ways to go—both in training and in reaching my fundraising goal. But I’m taking it one step at a time. If you feel moved to support this journey, whether by donating or simply sharing, it truly means a lot. Every bit of support helps expand access to meaningful resources and opportunities for individuals and families who need them. Thank you for being part of this journey with me 💙

MAR
24

Medal Monday 🏅✨ Another 5K in the books, and I’m feeling so grateful for every mile along the way. 💛 A huge thank you to my sister for being there to cheer me on—you made the day even more special (and you still owe me another race together 😉). Next up: Colfax Marathon 🏃‍♀️ I’m continuing to fundraise for the Organization for Autism Research (OAR), and every share or donation truly means so much 💙

Spring Fever 5k

MAR
17

I’m so excited to share that I’ve been given the opportunity to run the New York City Marathon this year—something that has been a personal goal of mine for a long time. Even more meaningful, I’ll be running in support of the Organization for Autism Research (OAR). Through my work as a social worker, I support youth and families navigating complex needs, including autism. I see every day how important access to practical, evidence-based resources is—not just for individuals, but for entire families. That’s why OAR’s mission matters so much to me. Their work focuses on real-life impact, providing tools and research that directly support the communities I care deeply about. Running has been such a powerful part of my own journey, and I’m grateful to combine that passion with a purpose like this. If you’d like to support or share, I’d truly appreciate it.

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$765
raised of $4,000 goal
 

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