In 2018, I ran my first marathon at the New York City marathon under the Organization for Autism Research team and it was one of the hardest challenges I had ever persevered through. I can still remember the overwhelming emotions I felt when I crossed that finish line after 26.2 miles that resulted in a giant smile on my face and tears in my eyes.

And while crossing the finish line of the 26.2 mile race for the 2nd time will be a meaningful accomplishment on its own, I will also have the privilege of running for a cause that is near and dear to my heart - autism research and support resources. This initiative is especially important to my family because we have seen the incredible difference resources and research can make for children with Autism through the work my sister is doing as a K-2nd grade special education teacher.

Please join me in this challenge as I prepare to run for a cause that is much bigger than myself. Your donations and support will be greatly appreciated!!


WHY RUN FOR AUTISM?
1 in 54 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.
$40,000 fully underwrites an applied research pilot study.